A local cinema is offering up an opportunity for people with autism to enjoy a day at the movies.
As part of a nationwide initiative from Regal Entertainment Group’s the company’s Mayfaire Stadium 16, 900 Town Center Drive, will offer My Way Matinee, a sensory-friendly movie-going experience, beginning this Saturday, Sept. 26. Wilmington is the only N.C. city other than Cary to offer the program.
Each month through December, the theater will screen a popular family film with the lights on and the volume lowered. According to the Autism Research Institute, children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities can have a dysfunctional sensory system in which senses are either over- or under-reactive.
“Regal is always looking to develop programs that positively impact our communities,” Rachel Lueras, marketing manager at Regal Entertainment Group, said. “By partnering with the autism community, My Way Matinee is a way for individuals, families and friends to enjoy a morning at the movies in a comfortable environment.”
My Way Matinee also encourages audience members to sing, dance and shout, if they’d like, during the movie.
It kicks off with “Hotel Transylvania 2” Saturday, and continues with “Pan” on Oct. 24, “The Peanuts Movie” on Nov. 21 and “The Good Dinosaur” on Dec. 12. All showtimes for My Way Matinee movies are 10:30 a.m. for the special ticket price of $6.50 plus tax.
Click here for more information and a list of My Way Matinee participating theaters nationwide.
