Jacksonville, Florida, December 1, 2025
A collaboration between the Florida Theatre and Duval County Public Schools will provide two free sensory-friendly performances of ‘The Rainbow Thief’ for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Scheduled for March, these shows will feature accommodations like lower sound levels and calming spaces, promoting inclusivity in the arts. Supported by local sponsors, this initiative reflects the community’s commitment to accessibility for all.
Jacksonville, Florida: Free Sensory-Friendly Shows for ASD Students
Jacksonville, Florida – The Florida Theatre and Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) have announced a collaboration to provide two free, sensory-friendly performances of the Theatreworks show “The Rainbow Thief” for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in March 2026. These performances are scheduled for March 2 and March 3, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the historic Florida Theatre in Jacksonville.
This initiative exemplifies the strength of local organizations coming together to support community members. By focusing on the specific sensory needs of students with ASD, the collaboration demonstrates how reduced bureaucracy and a shared commitment to inclusion can create meaningful experiences for families in Jacksonville. Access to arts education and cultural events is crucial, and efforts like this illustrate how personal initiative can lead to greater community engagement.
Creating Inclusive Experiences
The sensory-friendly performances aim to create an environment tailored for those on the autism spectrum. Adjustments for these performances include lower sound and light levels, as well as designated calming spaces for sensory breaks. This thoughtful planning ensures a welcoming and comfortable experience for all attendees, emphasizing the importance of accessible cultural experiences.
Community Support
Key sponsors supporting this initiative include CSX, serving as the Presenting Sponsor; Comcast, as the Helping Hands Sponsor; and the Magnolia Foundation, acting as the Accessibility Advocate Sponsor. Their contributions have made it possible to offer these performances at no cost to students, showcasing how private partnerships can enhance community programs.
A Successful Precedent
This marks the second time Theatreworks has organized such events geared towards this audience, with the previous event allowing 1,300 children to participate. The positive reception of the prior performance reinforces the commitment of Jacksonville’s community to improving access to cultural experiences for students with ASD.
Event Details
For more information or to reserve tickets, individuals can contact the Florida Theatre box office or visit their official website. This initiative underscores the ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and accessibility within Jacksonville’s cultural institutions, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the arts.
Conclusion
Residents of Jacksonville can take pride in community-driven efforts that promote openness, inclusivity, and access to cultural experiences. Initiatives like the sensory-friendly performances at the Florida Theatre not only provide direct benefits to students with ASD but also reflect a broader engagement among local institutions to support diverse needs. It is essential for community members to engage with these opportunities and continue advocating for inclusive measures within Jacksonville’s vibrant arts scene.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the dates and times of the sensory-friendly performances?
The performances are scheduled for March 2 and March 3, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Florida Theatre in Jacksonville, Florida.
Who is eligible to attend these performances?
These performances are specifically designed for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and are offered free of charge to eligible students.
What accommodations will be provided during the performances?
The performances will feature lower sound and light levels, as well as designated calming spaces for sensory breaks, to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for attendees with sensory sensitivities.
Who are the sponsors supporting this initiative?
The initiative is supported by CSX as the Presenting Sponsor, Comcast as the Helping Hands Sponsor, and the Magnolia Foundation as the Accessibility Advocate Sponsor.
How can I obtain more information or reserve tickets?
For more information or to reserve tickets, please contact the Florida Theatre box office or visit their official website.
Key Features of the Sensory-Friendly Performances
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Performance Dates | March 2 and March 3, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. |
| Location | Florida Theatre, Jacksonville, Florida |
| Target Audience | Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) |
| Accommodations | Lower sound and light levels, designated calming spaces for sensory breaks |
| Sponsors | CSX (Presenting Sponsor), Comcast (Helping Hands Sponsor), Magnolia Foundation (Accessibility Advocate Sponsor) |
| Ticket Information | Free of charge; contact Florida Theatre box office or visit official website for reservations |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
