Our Sensory-Friendly performance Mary Poppins

WaterTower Theatre Producing Artistic Director Shane Peterman and Associate Producer Elizabeth Kensek are proud to announce the addition of a Sensory Friendly early matinee performance of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s MARY POPPINS, a musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers & the Walt Disney Film. The added performance is scheduled for Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 10:00am.

WaterTower’s production is directed by John DeLos Santos, music directed by Cody Dry, and choreography by John DeLos Santos & Vasthy Mompoint. This is the final production of WaterTower’s 28th Season at the Addison Theatre Centre.

The design team includes Bob Lavallee as Set Designer, Christina Vargas as Costume Designer, Michael B. Moore as Wig Designer, Aaron Johansen as Lighting Designer, Mark Howard as Sound Designer and Engineer. The creative and production team also includes Associate Choreographer Bria J. Tyner, Equity Production Stage Manager Christopher L. Treviño, and Equity Associate Stage Manager Hillary Collazo Abbott.



What is a Sensory Friendly Performance?

A Sensory Friendly performance is a theater production that welcomes individuals with sensory needs, including people on the autism spectrum, as well as first-time theatergoers and young children. The performance will allow for patron movement, staff and actors are trained to accommodate patron needs, and all patrons are welcome to experience theater in a safe, non-judgmental environment.

The integrity of the performance remains the same, while production elements are modified to accommodate individuals with sensory needs allowing families and friends of those with autism or other disabilities the opportunity to enjoy an authentic performance experience together.

The goal is a relaxed and judgment-free theatre experience where audiences can move around or take breaks in the lobby, sing, or talk during the performance, or wear sunglasses/ear protection in the auditorium.

Families who want to utilize the sensory-friendly show will also have access to half-price tickets by calling the box office or

We welcome you, because at WaterTower Theatre, we strive to make theatre welcoming, fun, safe, & accessible for everyone!

What to Expect:

BEFORE THE PERFORMANCE

  • Doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain, to help familiarize patrons with the spaces and experiences they will encounter while attending this show.
  • Limited crowds with open seating to allow space between groups.
  • Meet the staff, ushers, and volunteers that are trained to be inviting and accommodating to families’ needs.
  • Sensory regulating toys and comfort/security items are welcome (please no food).

DURING THE PERFORMANCE

  • House lights remain on at a low level in the theatre during the performance.
  • Sound levels are lowered, especially startling or loud sounds, while preserving the original sound quality.
  • A reduction of strobe lighting and lighting focused on the audience.
  • Patrons have the freedom to talk and leave their seats during the performance.
  • Entering and exiting the theatre will be allowed throughout the performance.
  • Electronics are allowed for therapeutic use.
  • Quiet sensory area is available on the second level of the lobby for your convenience.
  • Hearing assist devices are available on request.

Any questions about Sensory Performances or ticketing can be sent to the WaterTower Theatre Box Office: boxoffice@watertowertheatre.org



MARY POPPINS live on stage is not to be missed and fun for all ages! The musical is based on the similarly titled Mary Poppins children's books by P. L. Travers and the 1964 Disney film, and is a fusion of various elements from the two, including songs from the film. Featuring the beloved songs from the original movie by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman (the Sherman Brothers), with additional music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, and a book by Julian Fellowes. It will play on the Terry Martin Main Stage from July 17-28, 2024 at the Addison Theatre Centre, but the NEW sensory-friendly morning matinee is on Tuesday July, 23rd at 10:00am.

One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way: as a practically perfect musical! Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for over 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

A delight for both grown-ups and children- we can all learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that "Anything can happen if you let it." The original 2007 production, written by Downtown Abbey creator Julian Fellowes, proved a huge success on Broadway, winning a Tony and two Drama Desk Awards. Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers and astonishing stagecraft with flying effects by Braun Productions.

The production has been approved by Actors Equity Association, ensuring the safety of both artists and patrons alike.

Appropriate for all ages.

WaterTower Theatre’s 2023-2024 Season Sponsor is the Town of Addison.