Beginning this weekend, Cineplex Canada will offer screenings of family-friendly movies aimed at a very specific audience — adapting them for the enjoyment of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Of 12 theatres across Canada participating in a new program, called Sensory Friendly Screenings, Langley is the only place in B.C. that viewers can take advantage of the films, which will be shown in 2D, at lower-than-normal volume.
The first feature shown at Cineplex Cinemas Langley (formerly Colossus Langley) will be The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water.
Other adjustments to the presentation include increasing auditorium lighting and ensuring that the crowd is small by showing the film in the morning, before the theatre is open to the general public.
Theatres will also provide a nearby calm zone for anyone who wants a break. Families will also be able to bring in outside food to accommodate dietary restrictions.
The program, developed in concert with Autism Speaks Canada, provides an opportunity for people and families living with autism spectrum disorder to enjoy new releases in a relaxed environment.
“Our goal is to make movie-going accessible to as many Canadians as possible,” said Pat Marshall, Cineplex Entertainment’s vice president of communications and investor relations.
Sensory Friendly Screenings will run on select Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Titles and booking information will be announced on Cineplex.com up to two weeks in advance of each screening.
Ticket prices for guests of all ages attending Sensory Friendly Screenings will be the current child ticket price at the participating theatre.
Cineplex Cinemas Langley is located at 20090 91A Ave.
For more information on Sensory Friendly Screenings, visit Cineplex.com/SensoryFriendly.