The UIS Performing Arts Center is a certified Sensory Inclusive Venue through KultureCity. This means that our staff has undergone training on how to assist and accommodate guests with sensory needs at any of our events. Below, you will find a list of resources offered to all patrons with sensory needs at any of our events.
During a typical season, we offer two additional performance events to the Class Acts series for our audience members with sensory needs. While we are not offering any shows this year due to a construction project in our venue, we look forward to offering Sensory Friendly programming for the 2026-2027 Staley Class Acts Season.
Positive Caregiver Feedback
Here is what caregivers had to say about Sensory Friendly programming during past seasons:
- “Thank you so much for taking the time, consideration and effort to look after the needs and interests of neurodivergent students. They love the fine arts very much! It is so wonderful that they get included!”
- “The parking being close helped a great deal. The guidance to where we were going also helped. The smaller setting was not too overwhelming, allowing people to move around, make noises, leave, and come back without everyone staring or looking around.”
- My son and others were truly allowed to be themselves as part of a group listening to great music, and that felt really awesome.”
- “(My child) loved going to the auditorium to see live performance without judgement or being asked to leave.”
What is Sensory Friendly Programming at UIS Performing Arts Center?
Most Sensory Friendly shows are offered in our 120-seat UIS Studio Theatre*, with limited lighting and sound changes. Audience movement, vocalizations, and ability to come and go as needed is welcomed and encouraged.
Additionally, the UIS Performing Arts Center has partnered with KultureCity® to enhance our ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory needs. Our goal is to provide an inclusive experience for all guests during all events. We strive to raise awareness of the needs and challenges faced by individuals with sensory processing needs by supplying our staff with annual training and by offering the resources and accommodations below to our guests.
KultureCity® Sensory bags
KultureCity® Sensory bags containing special KCVIP badges, feeling thermometer, fidget tools, and noise-canceling headphones are available for checkout (at no cost by leaving an ID) at our Guest Services Desk located on the House Left side of the lobby.
Weighted Lap Pads
Weighted lap pads are available upon request (at no cost by leaving an ID) at our Guest Services Desk located on the House Left side of the lobby or by speaking to a UIS PAC staff member.
Quiet Areas
Quiet areas are located at the corner lounges rear the House Right and House Left sides of the lobby and are marked by signage.
Social Story and KultureCity® App
Download the KultureCity® App to get your social story to help you further with your visit to the UIS Performing Arts Center.
Special thanks go to local partners The Hope School, The Hope Autism Clinic, Behavioral Perspectives, and Springfield Public Schools Family and Community Engagement/Springfield Parents for Students with Disabilities for continuing to support the UIS Performing Arts Center in reaching audiences for these events
These videos can help all guests of the UIS Performing Arts Center understand what they will experience when they attend an event.
UIS Studio Theatre attendance experience
Sangamon Auditorium attendance experience
