Experience Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol during a sensory-friendly performance at Indiana Repertory Theatre. This special matinee is designed to welcome audience members with autism and other sensory sensitivities, with sensory supports available and adaptations made as needed to support audience comfort.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
Doors Open: 1:00 PM
Show Begins: 2:00 PM
Location: Indiana Repertory Theatre, OneAmerica Financial Stage
Address: 140 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Cost: Tickets start at $27; prices vary by date and seating
Runtime: Approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission
Recommended Age: 3rd grade and above
About This Event
Indiana Repertory Theatre brings back its holiday tradition, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, adapted by Tom Haas and directed by Cara Hinh.
This familiar story follows Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey toward redemption, exploring the power of kindness, generosity, and love. The production blends storytelling and song in a seasonal theatre experience.
The November 14 matinee is designated as a Sensory Friendly Performance. IRT describes these performances as welcoming experiences for people with autism and other sensory sensitivities. Elements of the production may be adapted to support audience comfort, and sensory supports are available for all performances.
Accessibility Highlights
Features Families May Appreciate:
A public performance specifically designated as sensory-friendly
Sensory supports available through House Management
Potential adaptations to sound, lighting, visual effects, or other production elements
Accessible seating options
Audio enhancement and large-print programs available through IRT
A 20-minute intermission
Staff support for audience members with access needs
Helpful Planning Tips:
Contact IRT before the performance to ask which sensory adaptations are planned for this specific show.
The production includes ghosts and theatrical imagery or effects that may frighten young children. Families may want to review the story or study guide in advance.
The show runs approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes, including intermission. Consider whether that length works for your participant.
Ask the Ticket Office about accessible seating or other seating needs when purchasing tickets.
Sensory supports can be requested from House Management. Families may also bring familiar supports that help them enjoy the performance.
Who Might Enjoy This Event?
This performance may appeal to children, teens, and adults who enjoy theatre, classic stories, or holiday traditions.
The sensory-friendly format may be especially helpful for audience members who appreciate sensory supports, a more understanding theatre environment, or the option to ask about adaptations before attending.
What Families May Want to Know
IRT recommends the production for 3rd grade and above. The show includes mild profanity, ghosts, and imagery or effects that may frighten younger children.
The sensory-friendly performance does not mean every element of the production will be changed. IRT notes that adaptations may be made to elements such as lighting, sound, and visual effects, depending on the performance. Families can contact the theatre in advance to ask about the planned adjustments.
Why Families May Appreciate It
A sensory-friendly theatre performance can make live arts more accessible while recognizing that audience members experience performances in different ways.
This special matinee offers families an opportunity to enjoy a beloved holiday story in a setting where sensory needs are considered and supports are available. It can also be a chance to explore theatre together without expecting everyone to participate in exactly the same way.
Plan Your Visit
Venue: Indiana Repertory Theatre
Address: 140 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Doors Open: 1:00 PM
Performance: 2:00 PM, Saturday, November 14
Tickets and details: A Christmas Carol at IRT
Accessibility information: IRT Accessibility
Ticket Office: 317-635-5252
What’s on Your Calendar?
Know about another sensory-friendly, inclusive, or family-friendly event happening in Central Indiana?
