Palace Theatre Focuses on Inclusive Entertainment
When it comes to creating a truly inclusive and adaptive theater experience, few venues can match the commitment and dedication of Georgetown’s Palace Theatre. This outstanding keystone of the downtown Square has developed several programs that cater specifically to individuals who have special needs and provide an environment that is welcoming, accommodating, and comfortable for people of all ages. With a range of initiatives that include sensory-friendly performances, adaptive classes, assistive technology, and movement programs, the Palace Theatre has taken important steps to ensure everyone can enjoy the magic of live theater.
CURTAINS UP ON ACCESSIBILITY
SENSORY PERFORMANCES
Thanks to Trina Sherman, adaptive theater coordinator and special needs mom who dreamed of inclusion theater, and generous donations from the community, the Palace Theatre holds free, shortened productions of family-friendly musicals for special needs children and their families. Adapted for little ones who struggle to keep still, or are bothered by loud noises, these performances are shorter, include an ASL interpreter, and a hearing induction loop.
AUDIO DESCRIPTIONS
The Palace Theatre also provides verbal commentary for visually impaired theatergoers, which enables them to enjoy performances independently, without relying on a sighted companion. Audio description provides rich and vivid descriptions of the action on stage during scenes without dialogue, such as fights or kissing. These narratives seamlessly blend with the performance, allowing individuals with sight challenges to follow the plot, incorporate facial expressions, and appreciate the costumes and scenery.
INDUCTIVE HEARING LOOP
The Palace Theatre also offers a unique and innovative service that caters to those with hearing impairments. The main auditorium is equipped with cutting-edge technology that transmits sound directly from the sound board to any hearing aid fitted with a t-coil. This makes it easy for users to activate the t-coil option and enjoy an enhanced theater experience, with the option to turn off the microphone in their hearing aid to eliminate ambient noise in the auditorium. The theater also allows patrons to check out a “loaner” unit at any performance to ensure everyone can experience the excitement of live theater.
YOU! ARE THE STAR
DANCE FOR PD®
For those living with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers, the theater offers a weekly one-hour class, made possible by a grant from the Scott & White Clinic. Led by a professionally trained instructor, the program provides participants with an engaging, stimulating, and creative opportunity to explore movement and music while promoting healing and wellness. The benefits of the program include enhanced flexibility and increased confidence. But beyond the physical benefits, the class also works to stimulate mental activities and focus attention on the eyes, ears, and touch as tools for movement and balance.
ADAPTIVE THEATER FOR ALL
Research has shown the communication and processing skills that are integral to success in theater can have a profound impact on social, emotional, and academic development, and the Palace team is on a mission to bring those benefits to everyone in the community. Thanks to generous support from several local organizations, the Palace Theatre offers vacation theater camps that teach basic techniques and combinations in dance, acting, and music. These camps also provide opportunities for children to learn the art of theater through games, exercises, and rehearsals — all of which culminates in a family-friendly play for a live audience. The Palace Theatre is committed to making these programs available to all special needs children at an affordable cost. Financial need and educational scholarships are available, ensuring that everyone in our community can experience the transformative power of theater education.
MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S SCHEME
ADAPTIVE PERFORMANCE:
Thursday, June 1 at 7:30pm · “Once on This Island” a musical that tells the story of Ti Moune, a peasant girl living on a tropical island in the French Caribbean. When she falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of the island, she embarks on a journey that takes her on a quest for love and the meaning of life.
ASL PERFORMANCES: Once on This Island, May 27, 7:30pm | Crazy for You · July 8, 7:30pm
The Sound of Music · August 26, 7:30pm Visit the website for more information about programs and dates.