A Night to Remember: Our Largest Sensory-Friendly Performance Yet
Wednesday, January 28th marked a milestone moment for Encore Performing Arts—our largest sensory-friendly performance to date, with over 120 community members joining us for a special preview of Shrek the Musical Kids.
This free performance is one of the most meaningful parts of our work at Encore. We offer these sensory-friendly shows to members of our community who have sensory or unique circumstances that might otherwise prohibit them from attending theater. And every time we host one of these performances, we’re reminded of why we do what we do.
More Than Just a Show
The evening began with our amazing director, Bridget Arias Cunningham, taking the stage to welcome our guests. She introduced the story of Shrek the Musical Kids, talked about the characters, and gave everyone a preview of what they were about to experience. Then came one of our favorite parts—a bit of choreography that our guests got to participate in, bringing them into the world of the swamp before the show even began.
We always love when our young artists get to engage directly with our patrons, and this performance was no exception. Several cast members took the stage to share their experiences being in the show, talk about their characters, and reflect on what they’ve learned through the rehearsal process. These moments of connection—young performers sharing their journey with an audience that truly appreciates them—create something special that goes beyond typical theater.
The Power of Theater to Connect
Being grateful to our friends who join us at sensory-friendly performances has become a highlight of our experience with every production. These audiences truly light and uplift us all. They give us energy and remind us why we do what we do.
There’s something profound about watching 120 people come together to experience live theater in a space designed specifically for their needs. The laughter, the engagement, the pure joy—it’s a powerful reminder that theater has a unique ability to connect people in ways that nothing else can.
Building Traditions of Inclusion
With 120 participants, this sensory-friendly performance of Shrek the Musical Kids represents significant growth in our community’s engagement with inclusive theater. It tells us that Southern Utah is ready for these experiences, that families are looking for opportunities to share live performance together, and that when we create welcoming spaces, people respond.
Our young artists benefit just as much as our audience members. They learn that theater isn’t just about performing—it’s about serving. It’s about creating experiences that welcome everyone, regardless of their circumstances. And they get to see firsthand the impact their work has on real people in their community.
Looking Ahead
As we continue building theatrical traditions in Southern Utah, sensory-friendly performances will remain central to our mission. Every young artist deserves to be seen and heard on stage, and every member of our community deserves the opportunity to experience the magic of live theater.
Wednesday night proved what we’ve always believed: when we make space for everyone, theater becomes more powerful, more meaningful, and more transformative for all of us.
To the 120+ community members who joined us—thank you for sharing that evening with us. You reminded our young artists why their work matters, and you showed all of us the true power of inclusive, community-centered theater.
Shrek the Musical KidsJanuary 29-31 at Electric TheaterFeaturing 80+ young artists from Southern Utah
Regular performances: encorepa.org/ticketsLearn more about our sensory-friendly programming: encorepa.org/sensory-friendly-performances
