Angel got to experience the Mighty Jungle last Sunday at the Minskoff Theater in New York City. He attended his first live Broadway performance. It was the third autism-friendly performance given by the Theater Development Fund’s (TDF) Autism Theater Initiative. This initiative is a part of TDF’s Theater Accessibility Program (TAP), which debuted in 2011.

When we arrived at the theater, we picked up our voucher (long story) and headed up to the main theater area. There were several volunteers dressed in bright yellow Lion King T-shirts ready to help anyone who needed assistance. One of them gave Angel a soft orange “squishy” fidget toy. This was an awesome idea because it gave Angel something to keep his hands occupied during the show. We also got a colorful character guide. Lord knows I needed it because it had been years, since I had seen the original movie.

According to TDF’s Web site the, show was presented “… in a friendly, supportive environment for an audience of families and friends with children or adults who are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or other sensitivity issues. TDF also stated that slight adjustments would be made to the production. These adjustments included a “reduction in any jarring sounds or lights that focused into the audience.”

There was also a Quiet Area and an Activity Area in the theater lobby staffed with “autism specialists.” These accommodations were very helpful for anyone who needed to take a break during the show. Toys, coloring books, and bean bag chairs were available to make children feel more comfortable in the theater environment.

There were tons of visual supports provided by Autism Friendly Spaces. Parents also had access to dry erase First-Then Visuals and To-Do Visuals to provide children with some structure (if needed) during the show. Ear plugs were also given to anyone who needed to tone down any loud sounds during the performance.

When the animal parade came down the aisle at the beginning of the show, Angel squealed with delight. He was totally mesmerized by the animal costumes, music, and bright colors. I have to add that the cast was absolutely phenomenal and their voices were outstanding. Angel was not the only one who enjoyed the show. The set design was truly a work of art and it really helped to bring the story of The Lion King to life. It made me so happy to see Angel laugh, clap, and even stand up to get a better view of the stage during the show.

The show ran approximately two and a half hours including intermission. Angel did really well for this length of time. However, I plan on completing the survey that TDF sent to suggest that they have more than one intermission during their autism-friendly performances. This will allow children to take a break without having to miss the live show. This will also reduce the lines to get into the men’s and women’s bathroom. Yes, I said Men’s bathroom. The lines were crazy. Overall, going to see The Lion King was a great experience for Angel and for all of us.

Before I sign off, let me share a milestone that Angel experienced at The Lion King. He lost his first tooth. We did not realize this until we were taking pictures after the show. We had no idea that one of his teeth was even lose. I thought we had one more year to go before he started losing his baby teeth. The next thought we had was: Where is his tooth? I am sad that I did not know when it happened, so I could save it. We will definitely be on the alert for the second tooth that comes out.

We are looking forward to the next Autism-Friendly Broadway show. The Lion King was the experience of a lifetime!

Have you ever taken your child to a live performance? Please share your experience. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Miz Kp