A theatre event that places a premium on accessibility has been announced in Chicago for next month, allowing families and their young ones to explore inclusion in the arts.
The Chicago Children’s Theatre has announced a special event that will be held in February of 2026 as part of its 20-year celebration of making theater accessible and acting as a leader in sensory theater. The Chicago Sensory Theatre Summit will bring actors and educators from across the nation for an all-access sensory experience that will include workshops and presentations.
The event is suitable for children of all ages, including those in daycare in Chicago. The general public will get to witness a series of theater experiences that are non-verbal. Jacqueline Russell, the co-founder of the Chicago Children’s Theatre and Artistic Director, hopes to use the event to continue growing the theatre’s body of sensory work. Parents with children enrolled in Kids’ Work Chicago Riverview can attend and grow with their young ones at the gathering.
Russell has 17 years of experience working with children on the autism spectrum through the Red Kite Project, and through other productions, including X Marks the Spot: An X-Tra Sensory Xperience.
The Chicago Children’s Theatre, located on South Racine Avenue in Chicago, will host The Chicago Sensory Theatre Summit, which will announce an official date in the coming weeks. Registration will open soon, and the ticket costs will also be provided. The workshops and performances are suitable for interested parties of all ages.