Sensory Friendly Screening & Special Program on Autism Coming to The Lindsay
In April, Autism Awareness Month, The Lindsay Theater and Cultural Center will offer two events: a sensory friendly screening of the animated, much-anticipated The Super Mario Bros. Movie and a special program in partnership with the Autism Caring Center, featuring speakers and information alongside a new documentary, Spellers.
The sensory friendly The Super Mario Bros. Movie (92 min run time) will screen on Saturday, April 15, at 10:30 a.m., with no trailers shown in advance to reduce “sit” time. For this first sensory friendly screening of the year, all tickets will be $8.75. Please email the Theater if you are unable to attend because of ticket costs.
In addition, on Sunday, April 30, at 1 p.m., The Lindsay will host a screening of Spellers, with a discussion/information session/reception after the 83-minute film. While the event is free to the public, reservations must be made in advance online, as per arrangements with the film’s distributors.
The controversial documentary, an official selection of the Phoenix Film Festival, is inspired by the book Underestimated: An Autism Miracle, written by J.B. Handley, the father of one of the eight non-verbal young men and women featured in the film whose communication was enabled by using a spelling board.
Executive producers are Donnie Wahlberg and wife Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, whose (verbal) son with writer-producer John Asher was diagnosed with autism.
“We are thrilled to welcome people into this viewing to help spread education and show support,” shares Kelly Cain, executive director of the Autism Caring Center. “Given that April is Autism Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time! A small reception will follow the film.”
The Autism Caring Center mission is to enhance the lives of individuals and families by working diligently to provide support, resources, advocacy and offer training to community businesses to raise awareness and acceptance. The Center provides: Consultations by phone or in-person to support individuals and families in their need for resources and information; autism training for schools, community groups and businesses; monthly support groups for parents and individuals throughout Southwestern PA; and social events for individuals with ASD, their families and friends.