Eugene Ballet Youth Presents: Nutcracker Short & Suite, A Sensory Friendly Production

The Eugene Ballet Youth (EBY) is thrilled to present Nutcracker: Short & Suite with special modifications to create a sensory-friendly experience. EBY has shared the joy of dance with the community for 30+ years through their very own, condensed version of this holiday favorite! They present various versions at retirement facilities, elementary schools, libraries, and end their outreach tour with a stage presentation. This year, we are partnering with The Hult Center to spread the joy to an even wider audience. Enjoy the magic of the season with Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, dancing sweets and more. This production provides education, inspiration and enjoyment for all ages.

To break down barriers and increase access to the arts, we will be creating a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy live performance in their own way. Run time will be approximately 60 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. House lights will be dimmed but not dark, use of recorded music will limit sudden sound fluctuations, and there will be no use of strobe lights or explosives. Narration throughout the performance supports the story, and an ASL interpreter will be present with seats reserved for audience members that benefit from this support.

The lobby will be an extension of the experience before, during, and after the performance with immersive activities, room to move, room to retreat, and a space to watch a video version of the performance, should an audience member choose to exit the hall at any point. Doors to and from the lobby will be left open, so audience members may exit and enter with minimal disruption. Kindness Ambassadors from Oregon Community Credit Union will be available to answer questions and help guide audience members around the Hult Center.

We hope you can join us for this special community event!

Who is EBY?

EBY is the classical performing branch of Eugene Ballet Academy (EBA) and is comprised of 30+ youth students. This year’s production of Nutcracker: Short & Suite will feature other community youth and EBA students, including students from the Adult Dance Program.

What do I wear and bring? How can I prepare?

Feel free to bring fidgets, headphones, and other comfort items. Dress any way that you are comfortable, no need to be formal unless that is your wish. Ballet looks the same even if you are wearing pajamas!

The performance synopsis and social narrative are available in English and Spanish at eugeneballet.org/events

Who is this performance for?

Nutcracker Short and Suite is family-friendly and beloved by all ages. This particular performance will provide an inclusive space for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, ASD, SPD, or other sensory sensitivities or disabilities, and their families, friends, and caregivers. Nutcracker Short and Suite is also for anyone who would benefit from an adjusted performance, such as young children.

Are there any discounts available?

If you have an active card you may check out a Cultural Pass from Eugene Public Library, Springfield Public Library, or Cottage Grove Public Library. If you are interested in bringing a group and looking for further ticket support, please contact Katie Patrick, katie@eugeneballet.org.

What if I or my guest needs to exit or move around during the performance?

Doors to and from the lobby will remain open during the performance. If you anticipate needing to move around, we suggest selecting seats near an aisle, and in the rear orchestra. This allows easy access to the back concourse should you not want to fully exit the hall. The Hult Center does have a sensory room called the Serenity Room for patrons who would benefit from the use of a private, relaxing environment. This space offers comfortable seating dimmed lighting, sensory items, a soothing sound machine, and an electrical wall outlet. Patrons may contact an usher to access this space.

What will be happening in the lobby and when can I participate?

Lobby activities will remain available 60 minutes before, during, and 30 minutes after the performance. Attendees can look forward to a touch and feel station with Nutcracker and ballet elements, a coloring station, movement activities, photos with a dancer, a video option of the performance, and more. An area on the second level of the lobby will be reserved for guests who prefer space or need a break from activities but still want to observe the festivities. Kindness Ambassadors from Oregon Community Credit Union will be available to answer questions and help guide audience members around the Hult Center.

What if I or my guest have mobility needs?

Our team is happy to assist with any mobility needs during the event. If you’d like to plan ahead or talk through accommodations, please reach out to Louise Thomas-Vails, Guest Services Director, at 541-682-5307.

I would like to support this event directly or through my business. How can I help?

Thank you for your kindness and generosity! Please reach out to Michelle Ferguson michelle@eugeneballet.org to support this special experience for our community.