A New Season of Sensory Friendly Film Series Begins at the Carolina Theatre in August 2025

Tickets Available Now  

DURHAM, NC — August 9, 2025— The Carolina Theatre of Durham is proud to announce the return of its Sensory Friendly Film Series for a third season, running from August through December 2025. This free film series offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals with autism and others who benefit from sensory accommodations. Tickets are available now and can be reserved at carolinatheatre.org. 

Created in partnership with the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development, the series provides a modified movie-going experience suitable for guests of all ages. Duke experts advise on best practices and train theater staff, as well as provide sensory kits that include fidget toys, headphones, and other tools to enhance comfort during the films. 

“We are excited to continue our support for the third season of the Carolina Theatre’s Sensory Friendly Film Series – which helps people with different needs enjoy movies, in a calm and welcoming space. With supportive staff and a caring setup, watching films is easier and more comfortable for everyone,” says Dr. Lauren Franz, MB ChB, MPH, Interim Director of the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development. 

The theater works closely with an advisory committee that includes representatives from Arts Access NC, Autism Society of North Carolina, Autismazing, and other local organizations. Together, they help curate a film lineup that appeals to children, teens, and adults. This year’s selections include: 

• Rio 

• The Princess Diaries 

• Brave 

• Monsters, Inc. 

• Aladdin 

• Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 

“The Sensory Friendly Film Series reflects our belief at the theater that the magic of movies should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their sensory processing needs. There is nothing like seeing the excitement of an individual experiencing a live movie for the first time, and I am so glad we can help fill this need in the community,” says Laurie Siegel, Senior Director of Education and Community Engagement. 

To ensure accessibility and comfort, screenings are modified by: 

• Dimming the lights, but not darkened 

• Lowering the sound levels 

• Reducing seat capacity for more personal space between guests 

• The freedom to move, dance, or vocalize during the film without judgment 

• A nearby quiet space with calming activities 

Additional accommodations include kid-friendly booster seats, earplugs, and audio description or closed captioning devices, which are available at the box office. Guests have the option to bring snacks from home, and concessions are available for purchase. 

To learn more about the series, see showtimes, and reserve tickets, visit carolinatheatre.org.  

The Sensory Friendly Film Series is sponsored by Proud Moments ABA, National Endowment for the Arts, Duke Energy, Mary Duke Biddle Foundation, Phoenix Wealth Advisors, Fox Family Foundation, North Carolina Arts Council, and the Durham Arts Council. 

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About The Carolina Theatre of Durham:  

Carolina Theatre of Durham, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that manages the city-owned Carolina Theatre at 309 W. Morgan Street, Durham, NC 27701. Carolina Theatre of Durham, Inc. is dedicated to presenting vibrant, thought-provoking film and live performances that contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of downtown Durham and the Triangle Region. More information at carolinatheatre.org.  

Contact: Hanna Mercer 
Senior Director of Marketing, Carolina Theatre of Durham 
hanna@carolinatheatre.org