Welcoming and supportive
TDF Autism Friendly Performances present Broadway musicals and plays in a friendly, supportive environment for children and adults who are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or other sensitivity issues and their families and friends. Since 2011, TDF has presented more than two dozen autism-friendly shows on Broadway, starting with Disney's landmark musical The Lion King.
Some of the many autism-friendly performances on Broadway since then include Mary Poppins, Spider-Man, Wicked, Matilda, The Phantom of the Opera, Aladdin and more. TDF's autism-friendly performance of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time was the first autism-friendly performance of a non-musical in Broadway history.
Hadestown - Sunday, August 18 at 1 p.m.
The Lion King - Sunday, September 29 at 1 p.m.
Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes® - Sunday, November 17 at 9 a.m.
Our Town - Sunday, January 5, 2025 at 2 p.m.
MJ The Musical - Sunday, March 2, 2025 at 1 p.m.
& Juliet - Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 1 p.m.
Hamilton - Sunday, June 29, 2025 at 1 p.m.
We can make no assurances that these performances will be suitable for everyone with autism. Parents and guardians are solely responsible for their child’s viewing and engagement with these performances.
What makes a performance autism friendly?
Slight adjustments to the production are made, including reduction of any jarring sounds or strobe and spot lights that shine into the audience. House lights are faintly dimmed but remain on. TDF works closely with professionals in the field and with consultants on the autism spectrum to make each show accessible and enjoyable for everyone. TDF creates resources for each production that help prepare audience members for a day at the theatre. A team of volunteers and autism specialists are available throughout the theatre. Break areas are available to anyone who may need to leave their seats during the performance.
Our volunteers are an integral part of making the magic happen
Fill out this brief formIf you would like to support the work of TDF Autism Friendly Performances, please make a donation.
This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the New York City Council's Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addictions.
TDF wishes to thank the following institutions for their support of Autism Friendly Performances:
The FAR Fund
The Taft Foundation
NEXT for AUTISM
RBC Foundation USA
Adolph and Ruth Schnurmacher Foundation
Tickets
