Easterseals presents ‘Muppets Christmas Carol’ in sensory-friendly setting at Towngate

Easterseals Rehabilitation Center is teaming with Oglebay Institute’s Towngate Theatre to present the venue’s third Sensory-Friendly Sunday Matinee, featuring the 1992 musical film, “The Muppets Christmas Carol,” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16.

The free screening is designed to provide an environment that is more appropriate for people who might find a traditional movie theater experience overwhelming, uncomfortable or inaccessible. “Sensory-friendly” features include theater house lights will be dimmed but not off; volume will be lowered; and guests will not be required to stay seated and silent. 

 “Everyone is welcome to enjoy one of the most entertaining versions of this classic Christmas story with us. Patrons of our previous sensory-friendly movies have said they appreciate the welcoming environment and the relaxed atmosphere," Easterseals marketing director Betsy Bethel-McFarland said. “Some of us probably take going to the movies for granted. At our Sensory-Friendly Sunday Matinee, people of all ages and abilities can enjoy the big-screen movie theater experience."

The 166-seat Towngate Theatre offers an elevator and wheelchair seating in the front row. In addition, Towngate will show the movie simultaneously in the first-floor lobby to accommodate additional wheelchair users and guests who may prefer that setting. Closed captioning will be turned on. In case of food allergies or sensitivities, guests may bring their own food and drinks into the theater.

Towngate will offer free popcorn and will sell water and soda for a discounted rate.  

Admission is free. The event is sponsored by Easterseals board member Lynn Hetzel.

The movie is rated G and is one hour and 25 minutes long. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. The movie starts promptly at 2 p.m. There will be no previews or trailers.

Registration is requested but not required by filling out the Google form.

Donations to Eastereals are welcome to help the nonprofit's mission of creating life-changing solutions for children with developmental delays and disabilities in the Ohio Valley.  

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