Mansfield, MA Amphitheater to Accommodate Fans With Autism and Sensory Needs
As part of their ongoing commitment to enhance the fan experience, Live Nation and the Xfinity Center have partnered with non-profit KultureCity to become Sensory Inclusive Certified. This new initiative allows fans with autism, dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other sensory sensitivities to enjoy concerts in a comfortable and accommodating atmosphere. The Xfinity Center is the first amphitheater in the world to be certified by KultureCity.
As part of the certification, staff at the Xfinity Center are trained by leading medical professionals on how to identify and cater to concert-goers with sensory needs. Dedicated in-amphitheater sensory rooms and sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will also be available to ease fans who may become sensitive and overwhelmed by concert stimulation and noise.
“Attending concerts is a true community-binding experience and including sensory rooms is an important step in making them a fully inclusive experience. To know that families will be able to share these events with loved ones previously unable to attend is a truly heartwarming moment,” said Traci Johnson, Executive Director, KultureCity. “These experiences help shape our lives and it is wonderful to know that the Xfinity Center is willing to go the extra mile to make sure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included.”
“The venue is incredibly proud to have become Sensory Inclusive Certified with the help of KultureCity,” said Jeff Mann, XfinityCenter General Manager. “It is our mission to ensure all of our attendees feel taken care of and are given the opportunity to create special memories together.”
KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using their resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs; not just those with Autism. In the past year alone, KultureCity has created several sensory inclusive venues and events including the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, 16 NBA arenas, 5 NFL stadiums, 5 NHL arenas and countless zoos, science centers and aquariums across the nation.