The Missoula Community Theatre is proud to announce its 4th annual adapted musical theatre performance for people living on the autism spectrum. This year's production will be Shrek The Musical, presented Tuesday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the MCT Center for the Performing Arts.

Why an adapted performance? The vision of MCT, Inc. is "to foster creativity and enhance capabilities in individuals all over the world by providing access to community-driven performing arts experiences, and MCT strives to transcend any barriers such as language, culture, financial resources, and unique needs to transform lives by actively engaging people in the arts."

The unique needs of people on the autism spectrum prevent many from attending public theatre events. Through collaboration with local experts, MCT has developed strategies to make our adapted performances accessible for families with one or more members on the spectrum.

The performance features slight adjustments to the production, such as a shorter running time, modified lighting and reduction of jarring sounds. Use of "light sticks" to announce the anticipation of applause or louder sounds/lighting effects help the audience anticipate the actions. In addition, the theatre lobby will have designated quiet areas, and we encourage patrons to leave and enter the theatre auditorium as needed.

An earlier than usual curtain time (6:30 p.m.) will allow families to enjoy the production and still have regular bedtimes. Adjustments will be made to shorten the length of the evening to 90 minutes, including a short intermission.

To help apprehensive theatre-goers who may not know what to expect, the MCT website will have a social story about the theatre, the ticketing/seating process, the bathrooms, and the show itself http://www.mctinc.org/In_Missoula/Missoula_Community_Theatre. MCT wants to meet the needs of each audience member and welcomes your feedback to help us improve the adapted performance experience for your family. Please send your comments and feedback to nlichtenberg@MCTinc.org.

Audiences for MCT's adapted performances have quadrupled in the past three years, so make your plans now to attend this performance! Thanks to Full Circle, tickets are available at a reduced price of $10 each, and can be purchased online at www.MCTinc.org, at 406-728-7529 (PLAY), or in person at the MCT box office.