In honor of Autism Awareness Month (the month of April), the world-renowned Blue Man Group has unveiled a year-long partnership with Autism Speaks--the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. Autism Speaks is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. How fitting for Blue Man Group to be taking on this partnership seeing as how the color representing autism awareness is blue! The company has pledged to give a $25,000 donation to the cause and our favorite part, the group will host at least one sensory-friendly show, suitable for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), in each of its markets.
Could this be any more wonderful? We love hearing about people coming together to support a greater cause! For the sensory-friendly shows, slight modifications will be made including reducing sound and light levels at various moments during the performance and making headphones available upon request. The Blue Men will limit the amount of “chair walking” and keep their approach to the audience more subdued. Blue Man Group will also create calming environments in each theater’s lobby for families seeking a break from the excitement.
The Blue Man Group organization has heard from many families affected by autism that their children responded to the Blue Man character in a very moving way at prior shows or watching their commercials/online ads. We don’t know the exact reason why; we can only speculate that it has to do with the Blue Men communicating in their own unique way--non-verbally, through visuals, touch and sound, creating a connection that these children may not find in their every day lives. The Blue Man character's message often resonates on a deeper, more sincere level.
Once they knew that they could be helpful or provide an outlet for those affected by autism, The Blue Man Group organization felt it was important to do more. "With our sensory-friendly shows, we want to create a safe and welcoming environment for individuals and families affected by this disorder, in the hopes that they can have an entertaining and joyful experience together” says Phil Stanton, Blue Man Group Co-Founder. Such a comfort to know that organizations support this ongoing cause!
The fastest growing developmental disorder in the U.S., ASD affects 1 in 68 children and 1 in 42 boys. Characteristics include social challenges, communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors. As a non-verbal, visually-stunning show, Blue Man Group serves as a great fit for all children and families. We wish Autism Speaks and Blue Man Group continued success with their partnership and hope this campaign sparks other organizations to devour the details and 'Light It Up Blue' for autism awareness! For more information visit The Blue Man Group or Autism Speaks.
No comments:
Post a Comment