Sensory Programming
Sensory programming
Our Sensory Programming is designed to offer a professional production of The Nutcracker to students who have multi-sensory challenges/needs; those who have emotional, social, cognitive, visual, hearing, and physical needs; those who are on the Autistic Spectrum; and those who are homebound.
This program was designed 12 years ago with the help of the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System. Guidance was given as to what students would need to feel accepted (and not over stimulated) while attending a ballet in a theatre. Our ballet students and Professional Company who perform for this performance are advised as to the needs of the students - and that this is truly the most important performance they will have for The Nutcracker.
This performance is offered at no cost each year by Ballet Spartanburg with the support of many corporations and individuals. Volunteers from Ballet Spartanburg and Converse University help with the unloading/loading of buses and assisting students, teachers, parents, and caregivers into the theatre. The programming is a team effort to ensure safety, comfort, and acceptance for all attending.
Click here for a WSPA News Story about the 2024 Sensory Sensitive Performance.
Accommodations are made for students to enjoy the ballet, including:
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House lights are held at half house
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Music is lowered and monitored during the performance with no loud crescendo music
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Flashes are removed from the ballet
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Students are given Sensory Books and crayons as they enter (to be used when restless)
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A Sensory cool down area is available in the lobby for all teachers to take students
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Narration headsets and a Braille sensory book are provided for all blind students
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An ASL Interpreter is n stage for the beginning and end of the performance
If you or your business would like to know more about this programming and would like to be involved, please contact Teresa Berline, Executive Director. This is the only sensory program that is offered in Spartanburg (and the Upstate) to allow students to see The Nutcracker, Act 1. Join us as a supporter as we continue to expand our programming into the fall series in the future. You are the support that makes the difference for all programming at Ballet Spartanburg.
Carlos Agudelo, 2023 SC Governor's Award for an Individual
Ballet Spartanburg's Artistic Director, Carlos Agudelo, was awarded the South Carolina Governor's Award from the South Carolina Arts Commission on May 23, 2023, at the Chapman Cultural Center. The award was presented by Mr. David Platt, Executive Director of the South Carolina Arts Commission. "We recognize the unparalleled energy, enthusiasm, devotion and love for dance that Carlos has gifted to our community out of his passion for all to experience the arts for the past 32 years. We are overjoyed that Carlos has been recognized by the South Carolina Arts Commission, " Teresa S. Berline, Executive Director. "The South Carolina Arts Commission is an extraordinary organization in our state which promotes and advocates opportunities in the arts which values equality, access, diversity and inclusion. Ballet Spartanburg is honored by the support of the South Carolina Arts Commission and the recognition of Carlos Agudelo."
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