Getting ready forSymphony Hall: the BSO Sensory-Friendly Family Concert.
A shorter Boston Symphony Orchestra program with storytelling on Saturday, March 27, 2027, with reduced volume and lighting, relaxed house rules, room to move, headphones, a quiet room and autism therapist volunteers.
“This concert is designed for all families with children or adults with an autism spectrum disorder or sensory sensitivities.”
“Modifications include relaxed house rules, reduced volume and lighting levels, extra space for movement, available noise-reduction headphones, designated quiet room and support spaces, modified food concessions, and credentialed autism therapist volunteers on site.”
“If/when the individual is ready to re-enter the hall for the performance, they are welcome to do so. An usher can help you find your seat.”
Age: Symphony Hall's policy says children aged 5 or younger won't be admitted to Boston Symphony Orchestra events, while the BSO's sensory-friendly page says these concerts are for people of any age. If your kid is 5 or under, ask before you buy: questions about sensory-friendly performances go to the Education and Community Engagement department at 617-638-9375 or education@bso.org, and accommodations to 617-638-9431 or access@bso.org.
Every guest needs a ticket. An adult must accompany all children, and guests under 15 need a guardian with them.
Bags: the hall's policies list two backpack limits, 22 x 14 x 9 inches and 18 x 14 x 9 inches. A bag no bigger than 18 x 14 x 9 inches fits both.
Clapping after the last song (the clapping may be loud)not stated
Quieter, in the orchestra's words
A designated quiet room and support spaces, with a live feed of the concert in the support roomsquiet zone
The lobby, available for breaksquiet zone
Tickets are $0 to $20, plus $1.50 in fees. Buy online or call Ticketing and Customer Service at 617-266-1200 or 888-266-1200 (Monday to Friday 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday 12:30 to 4:30 pm). Accommodations: 617-638-9431 (toll-free 888-266-1492, ext. 9431) or access@bso.org.
The Cohen Wing entrance at 251 Huntington Avenue has a curb cut for wheelchairs and drop-off, and ushers can help as needed with getting in and finding your seats. Accessible on-street parking for people with disabilities is first come, first served on St. Stephen Street near the Stage Door and on Huntington Avenue near the Cohen Wing.
Outside food and drinks aren't allowed, except bottled water. If your kid needs food for a medical reason, see Security or another staff member. The concert has modified food concessions, and you may be able to buy snacks or drinks at a concession stand in the hallway before and during the concert.
The restrooms are in the hallways outside the concert hall on the 1st and 2nd floors. For sensory-friendly concerts, the automatic flushing on the toilets in all restrooms is turned off.
