For most of us, going to a theatre to catch a screening of our favourite movie is nothing out of the ordinary. However, for families of individuals with special needs, a trip to the movies can turn out to be an extremely challenging ordeal. Individuals with sensory processing issues (particularly those on the Autism spectrum) can be hypersensitive to things encountered at the movies. Loud noises, long queues, sudden changes in light and large groups of people can be particularly overwhelming and in some cases, could even trigger a meltdown.
But that doesn't mean they should have to miss out on the fun. To address this challenge, SPI Cinemas, in association with a special world, is introducing SENS: A Special Show for Special Minds. SENS is the first-of-its-kind in India and will showcase sensory-friendly screenings of popular movies, in order to offer a comfortable and adaptive moviegoing experience for individuals with special needs and their families.
Features of this show include:
● Dimmed lights throughout the duration of the show
● Lowered sound levels
● Unrestricted movement and chatter within the screen
● A longer intermission
For patrons feeling overwhelmed, there will also be a break-space to help them calm down. Additionally, keeping their dietary restrictions in mind, the concessions menu will offer specially curated sugar-free, gluten-free and casein-free foods.
“Introducing these special shows allows us to not only build an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere but also to be more socially aware. Our aspiration is to make our cinemas accessible to everyone and even though we have a long way to go, SENS - which is part of our project called #cinemaforeveryone, is a small step towards achieving that dream“ said Bhavesh Shah, Head of Experience, SPI Cinemas. “From the word go, we found the SPI Cinemas team very receptive to our needs. They had such a great ‘let’s get it done’ attitude. Otherwise, this would never have been possible. If more corporates pick up on this example, the world will surely be a better place for citizens with special needs” said Mala and Chinnappa, Founders of a SPECIALworld - a forum focused on special needs children and their parents. SENS will take place on the first Sunday of every month at participating theatres, with tickets for the show being available on the SPI Cinemas website and app.
The first film to be screened will be Jungle Book at Seasons, Sathyam Cinemas in Chennai and The Cinema in Coimbatore on August 5th, 2018.