Are the performances free?

Yes! Every performance is free, no tickets required.

Do I need a ticket?

No, there are no tickets required. We do kindly ask that you register beforehand, at the Google Form linked to the specific event you are interested in. It helps us to know roughly how many audience members to expect in preparing for each specific event — but if you decide to join us last minute, walk-ins are always welcome!

How long are the performances?

Each performance lasts approximately 60 minutes, with plenty of options for breaks throughout.

My child cannot sit through an hour-long concert. Is this event appropriate for me?

Yes! At the beginning of every performance, we welcome and encourage all audience members to feel free to experience the music as you like. If your child wants to get up and dance or run around, they are welcome to. We want everyone to relax and enjoy themselves! If they need to leave the space for a little while, you are welcome to use the designated Quiet Area or step outside. We try to have a sensory break room available at all events, wherever possible.

My child doesn’t have autism. Can I still come?

Yes, every performance is open to the public and welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds, while being particularly mindful of and sensitive to the needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. We simply ask that you realize this is not a controlled audience environment, and accept the possibility of extraneous noise and movement throughout the performance.

What does “interactive performance” mean?

Performers will speak between each musical selection (sometimes offering personal stories, interesting facts about or connections with the music), and/or lead engaging activities, such as dancing, singing, and clapping. Each musical selection is under 5 minutes long.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are running late to the concert. Can we still come?

Yes. Our performances are presented in a way that makes late entry natural and not disturbing. You don’t even need to wait for the end of a piece – please feel free to come in and join us when you arrive!

What makes these performances autism-friendly?

In planning for each performance, we take into consideration the venue size, layout, lighting, and acoustics. We offer a designated quiet space, and a sensory support library complete with things like headphones and fidget toys for the duration of the performance. The performance itself offers a variety of music and ways to engage with the music. During the performance, we welcome all individuals to experience the music as they see fit, whatever that may mean. We will never shush you or ask you to sit still. We like to see you enjoying yourself.

Do I need to have any prior knowledge of classical music before the performance?

Not at all! The magic of the discovery is one of the great joys of attending one of our concerts.

Do you offer run-out performances?

Yes, we offer a variety of private and community performances. Please contact us at the information below if you would like us to present an interactive performance for your school, camp, or community.

Why is each performance in a different location?

This season, we are trying something new in offering all of our public performances at The Ethical Society on Rittenhouse Square. In general, part of our mission is to make these performances as accessible as possible, which is why they’re free, and why we have offered them in neighborhoods across the Philadelphia area. This year, we are experimenting with familiarity and establishing one audience — if you preferred our old format, don’t hesitate to let us know.

How can I get in contact with you?

For questions about Philadelphia Performances for Autism, please e-mail us at PHLPerformancesForAutism@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you! To connect on social media, please like our official Facebook page or follow us on Twitter or Instagram! To receive updates straight to your inbox, please sign up for our mailing list.

If you have any other questions or comments, please feel free to reach to us at PHLPerformancesforAutism@gmail.com, or on Instagram or Facebook. We will do our best to get back to you in a timely manner.