Goodspeed Musicals to host sensory-friendly performance of Annie in East Haddam

Annie the musical at goodspeed opera house october - december 2026

Goodspeed Musicals will offer a sensory-friendly performance of Annie on Sunday, Dec. 13, at 6:30 p.m. in East Haddam. The show is part of the 50th anniversary production of the Tony-winning musical, which had its pre-Broadway premiere at The Goodspeed in 1976.

The performance is designed for people affected by sensory-processing sensitivities and their families. The theatre environment will be adjusted with changes to lighting and sound, and a designated quiet area will be available for anyone who needs a break. Goodspeed said the goal is to create a safe, comfortable and inclusive space.

The performance is open only to families and caregivers who are familiar with and accepting of behaviors exhibited by some individuals with autism and other sensory-processing sensitivities. Ahead of the show, theatregoers can find resources at goodspeed.org/sensoryfriendly, including a character guide, a plot synopsis, photos and video clips, a social story, FAQs and a “coming to the theatre” video.

Discounted tickets are being sold only to people affected by sensory-processing challenges and their families. To purchase tickets or ask questions, contact Morgan Dumark-McNamee at 860.615.0318.

Thomas M. Neff and Lyndon Haviland are the lead sponsors of the sensory-friendly performance. Goodspeed’s Sensory-Friendly Performances are also sponsored by Hebron Lions Charities, Inc.; Maximillion E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation, Inc.; Middlesex United Way; The Max Showalter Foundation; The Shubert Foundation; and The Suzio York Hill Companies.

Goodspeed Musicals is a nonprofit arts organization and the first theatre in the nation to receive two Tony Awards for outstanding achievement in musical theatre. Led by Artistic Director Donna Lynn Hilton and Managing Director Vanessa Logan, it presents productions on two stages, The Goodspeed in East Haddam and The Terris Theatre in Chester. Twenty-one Goodspeed musicals have gone to Broadway, including Man of La Mancha, Annie, Shenandoah and Holiday Inn.

Click here to purchase tickets.

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Goodspeed Musicals to host sensory-friendly performance of Annie in East Haddam