Audience noise and movement is usually the antithesis of a good theater experience, but at the Hedgerow, it’s just the ticket for a neuro-diverse audience, writes Jane M. Von Bergen for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

On a recent Sunday, the Hedgerow Theatre in Media had a “no shush, no-judgment, relaxed and audio—described” performance of Cowboy Versus Samurai.

Marcie Bramucci, Hedgerow Theatre’s executive artistic director, invited the audience to be its “fullest self.”

The approach focuses on audience members with autism and other neurological issues, like dementia, agoraphobia, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

“It’s how we shift the culture of our organization to be more inclusive,” Bramucci said.

To avoid unwanted surprises, Hedgerow emailed ticketholders a guide before the show describing the characters and plot and any scenes with sudden noises.  

The audience got a sensory tour before the first act, meeting the cast and touching the props.  

There were sound-canceling headphones, anxiety-reducing fidgets and calming zones in the lobby.

An audio-describer whispered what was happening on stage through an earpiece for low-vision audience members.  

Dimmed house lights stayed on so people could move or leave.

Most importantly—the Hedgerow allowed noises, flapping arms, walking, and stomping feet.

Read more at The Philadelphia Inquirer about sensory-sensitive performances at the Hedgerow Theatre.