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In an extraordinary collaboration, The Vista School and the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB) provided a sensory-friendly performance of Once Upon a Rhyme for more than 50 students with autism. Hosted at the Whitaker Center in Harrisburg, the event marked a significant milestone for Vista students, many of whom had never attended a live performance before.
For 12-year-old Herod, the sensory-friendly ballet was a transformative experience. “Having a sensory environment is definitely helping these kids be in places they cannot be usually,” said Herod’s father, Ali Jaffry. The performance was tailored to accommodate the needs of individuals with autism, ensuring the environment was welcoming and accessible.
From well-lit seating areas to reduced sound levels, the ballet made thoughtful adjustments to minimize sensory triggers. The theater was intentionally not filled to capacity, allowing students to move freely and enjoy the show at their own pace.
“Being able to get up and walk around during the show is really great for them,” said Devon Sprenkle, Director of Development at The Vista School. “Our students don’t often have an opportunity that is exclusive for them and also provides some of the accommodations that make an experience joyful.”
While the ballet dancers performed the same choreography as in a traditional show, the adjustments to the theater environment ensured a more comfortable experience. “Making sure the sound is not too loud or not too surprising at certain moments” was key, explained Nicholas Ade, CEO of the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet.
Ade emphasized that the performance’s theme, learning is fun, aligned perfectly with the mission to provide families with a joyful, stress-free experience.
For Vista students, who ranged in age from four to twenty-one, the sensory-friendly ballet was more than just a field trip—it was an opportunity to explore something new and exciting. “They can enjoy things they’ve never enjoyed before,” said Ali Jaffry, reflecting on the significance of the event.
As Vista’s largest field trip to date, the collaboration between The Vista School and CPYB represents a significant step toward creating inclusive experiences in Central Pennsylvania. Such performances remain rare in the region, making this event all the more impactful.
The success of the sensory-friendly ballet highlights the importance of partnerships that prioritize inclusion and accessibility. The Vista School remains committed to providing unique opportunities that empower students and their families, ensuring that everyone can participate in enriching experiences that foster joy, connection, and growth.
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