The Promise of Light
A Sensory Friendly Performance
On December 11th, The Mendelssohn
Choir of Pittsburgh held their first sensory
friendly performance, a concert titled
The Promise of Light. The focus was on
creating a welcoming environment that
included a relaxing of traditional “concert
rules” leaving patrons free to get up,
make noise (talk, clap, sing!), move
around, and leave/return to the concert
space as desired. The use of iPads and other electronics was allowed, along with sensory fidget toys and other items that were available for use during
the performance. Quiet spaces were set up for patrons needing a break.
We asked Viney Thomas, Artistic Administrator at The Mendelssohn Choir, about their performance, and what to expect in the future.
What brought you to The Mendelssohn Choir?
I came to work on community outreach through leading various events over the next few years. Matthew Mehaffey, MPC's music director, was my music professor at the University of Minnesota, and very graciously extended an invitation to come apply for this role in Pittsburgh. I have loved my time here thus far, and by now I can safely say that although I grew up in Texas, living in Minnesota the past two years has prepared me for anything, weather-wise!
Why do a sensory friendly performance?
Given that we are in a culturally vibrant and forward thinking arts community in Pittsburgh, where several organizations have already established sensory friendly experiences for years now, it was about time the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh joined in! This organization has been around for more than a century, but there are still more communities we need to connect with moving forward, and we are excited to learn and continually make these opportunities more available for people to come and partake in our musical journey.