A new way to see the show

[Guest guest]

A new way to see the show

A collaboration of AMC Theaters and the Autism Society has created a relaxed and

happy atmosphere for a morning of family bonding.

For those individuals who have been diagnosed with autism or those families who

encounter the effects of autistic children, the movie theater is now a positive

outlet.

It is not often easy to take family outings with autistic children due to the

behavioral outbursts that can occur in a public setting, which often imposes on

surrounding people.

AMC Theaters has created a once a month viewing of a new movie each month where

autistic individuals and their families can bring their own gluten free snacks

and enjoy a show at the theater.

For this specific showing, the movie theater turns down the volume so it is less

intrusive for the viewers and turns up the lighting so that is does not frighten

any viewers.

“This is an opportunity for families to truly enjoy themselves instead of

worrying about offending bystanders by a possible outburst,†Kathy Eiss,

president of the autism society, said.

The autism society notifies those individuals through email regarding the time

and date of the showing, as well as, the title of the showing.

The collaboration was implemented as of 2009. There are currently 90 AMC

Theaters nationwide involved in the collaboration with the autism society

Individuals interested in attending the showing can be added to the mailing list

by visiting the autism Website at www.autismwny.org.

The website also lists upcoming workshops and other events for individuals to

attend.

“When individuals support the movie showings it makes it viable for the

theater to continue to support the benefit of the children,†Eiss said.

The showings contain no previews or advertisements prior to the show in order to

avoid any possible interruptions that may occur.

The autism society is so thankful to AMC Theaters for their participation and is

greatly appreciative of their help in creating an outlet and a new way for

families who have to cope with autism to enjoy their lives.