Thursday’s performance is an invitation only sensory-friendly dress rehearsal. Audience members will have a special to attend this show. The following shows are at full-production levels. Headphones are available for all shows.

Sensory-friendly performances are designed especially for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory sensitivities, or other disabilities. Sensory-friendly seating is general admission allowing individuals extra space if needed. To provide a supportive and welcoming environment for children and families, sensory-friendly performances include:

• Reduction of loud or jarring sounds

• Reductions in flashing or strobe lights

• Modification of the house lights during the performance

• Accommodated house rules: audience members are free to talk or move during the show.

• Extra staff and volunteer support.

• Designated “Take a Break Space”

• Meet your seat. Guests are welcome to stop by Mon.-Fri. 1:30-5pm to view the theater prior to the performance.

The Garner Performing Arts Center also has three Sensory Backpacks available for check out at the Box Office. These are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Backpacks include: noise cancelling headphones, sunglasses, fidgets, and 3lb weight lap blankets. Patrons who have questions about other sensitivity accommodations are welcome to contact Amy Pridgen or 919-661-6984.

Assistive listening devices (ALDs) amplify and clarify sound by cutting down or eliminating ambient noise. Headsets with earbuds or induction neckloops are available free-of-charge on a first-come, first-served basis and can be picked-up in the main lobby. Guest using the neckloops must have hearing aids and cochlear implants with a "T" switch.  Ask your audiologist whether your hearing aid or cochlear implant has a "T" switch (telecoil) and how to use it with an assistive listening headset. 

The Garner Performing Arts Center is housed inside of the former Garner High School.  A ramped walkway is available at the main entrance for patrons unable to climb stairs. Access throughout the facility is all on one level with no interior steps.  The stage is accessible via a ramp located house right.

There is also an ample amount of free on-site parking for all events. Parking attendants are on duty to help guide guest to the nearest available slot for all shows.  Please note our facility does share parking with 45 senior apartments located in the facility. Parking in "Resident Only" spaces is discouraged and reserved for residents of the facility. Overflow parking lots can be located adjacent to the GPAC at 117 Avery St.

The GPAC is equipped with six wheelchair accessible seat location (four spaces along the front row, two spaces along the back row). The four along the front row include adjacent seats with lifting arms for patrons who would like to transfer to a fixed house seat. If you need assistance purchasing tickets, please contact the Box Office at 919-661-4602 or gpacboxoffice@garnernc.gov.

Accessible Seating can also be purchased in advance.