Hadestown Collaborates with TDF for Groundbreaking Autism-Friendly Performance

 

Hadestown Collaborates with TDF for Groundbreaking Autism-Friendly Performance

The transcendent world of theater becomes even more inclusive as Hadestown, the Tony Award-winning masterpiece, joins forces with TDF, the esteemed not-for-profit service organization for the performing arts. Together, they are poised to present an unprecedented Autism-friendly performance of Hadestown on Sunday, August 20th at 1:00 PM ET at the iconic Walter Kerr Theatre (219 W 48th St). This pioneering event, sponsored by the generous Thomas M. Neff, promises an extraordinary experience tailored to families with members on the Autism spectrum or with other developmental or cognitive disabilities.

In a groundbreaking effort to create a supportive atmosphere, this unique matinee rendition will cater to children and adults diagnosed with autism or sensory sensitivities, along with their families. To ensure a comfortable experience, minor modifications will be made to the production, including the reduction of disruptive sounds, lights, and audience-focused fog effects. Moreover, the theater lobby will feature staffed break areas to accommodate audience members who may need to briefly leave their seats during the performance.

This unprecedented performance was made accessible through a lottery exclusively offered to families with children and adults on the autism spectrum who have previously attended TDF Autism Friendly Performances on Broadway. For more details about TDF Autism Friendly Performances and to stay updated on upcoming shows, visit TDF.org/autism.

Producer Mara Isaacs shared, "Hadestown has the power to resonate with audiences in a myriad of ways, connecting them through its story, music, lyrics, and characters. Our aim is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their individual journey, can find their own connection to this tale of love, hope, community, and redemption. We eagerly anticipate discovering the unique resonance this performance will hold for our guests attending the Autism-friendly show."

Lisa Carling, TDF's Director of Accessibility Programs, expressed excitement about this initiative, stating, "We are thrilled to offer this autism-friendly performance of an exceptional show to our families with children and adults on the autism spectrum. Thanks to Mr. Neff's generosity, these individuals, who have attended previous autism-friendly performances on Broadway, will enjoy an unforgettable experience."

Hadestown currently features Grammy Award winner Reeve Carney as Orpheus and Tony Award winner Lillias White as Hermes, alongside a talented cast. This awe-inspiring musical traces two intertwined love stories: that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and King Hades and his wife Persephone. With captivating melodies and a poetic narrative, Hadestown invites audiences on an exhilarating journey to the underworld and back, exploring themes of industry versus nature, doubt versus faith, and fear versus love. The show delivers a deeply resonant and profoundly hopeful theatrical experience through the vibrant performances of its ensemble.

This remarkable production marks a significant milestone as the first musical in over a decade to be solely created by a woman, Anaïs Mitchell, who wrote the music, lyrics, and book. It also boasts the distinction of being the first time in Broadway history that both the show's female composer and female director have won Tony Awards for their remarkable contributions. With its illustrious track record, Hadestown continues to captivate audiences with its distinctive blend of modern American folk music and New Orleans-inspired jazz, reimagining a timeless tale for a new generation.

For an electrifying and inclusive theatrical experience, secure your tickets for Hadestown at www.seatgeek.com/hadestown-tickets or visit the Walter Kerr Theatre box office (219 West 48th Street). Immerse yourself in a narrative that speaks to the human spirit and celebrates the resilience of the artistic soul.