Sensory Friendly Concerts

Two young audience members smiling and enjoying a Xenia concert
Photo: Nicola Betts
Three musicians sit on a stage with microphones in front of them. One is playing an oud, one is playing a drum, and the other is playing violin on his knee
a string quartet on stage, viewed from the back of the audience. One of the musicians is speaking into a microphone.
Photo: Nicola Betts
two audience members smile for the camera. One of them is giving two thumbs up.
A mother and son sit on the floor applauding and smiling

Sensory-friendly Xenia Concerts are family-friendly events that embrace neurodiversity and disability. We work with our artists to design concerts that are fun and casual, and we transform the listening environment to be welcoming and inclusive for children and families who experience systemic and social barriers to inclusion at typical events. These concerts combine innovative programming with a suite of accessibility features, all presented by some of Canada’s finest musicians. Above all, Xenia’s sensory-friendly concerts are inspiring experiences where you can be yourself, together.

EXPLORE UPCOMING SENSORY-FRIENDLY EVENTS

Sensory-friendly Concert Features

  • All expressions welcome — feel free to move around, make noise, or stim!
  • Hour-long concert programs with short musical selections
  • Opportunities to move and dance
  • Natural lighting
  • Flexible seating with extra space for wheelchairs and adaptive strollers
  • Quiet area for breaks
  • Sensory toys available at in-person concerts
  • Wheelchair accessible venues
  • ASL interpretation (select concerts)
  • Live audio transcription (online events)
  • Q & A sessions with the musicians
  • Visual description integrated into artist introductions
  • Venue Guides (Visual Stories) to prepare audiences for the concert experience
  • No financial barriers for attendees

Do you have a suggestion for how we can make our concerts more inclusive and accessible? Write to our Executive and Artistic Director Rory McLeod at rory.mcleod@xeniaconcerts.com or call us at 647-896-8295.

Thanks to our Supporters!

Funders

The Government of Canada

The Canada Council for the Arts

The Ontario Arts Council

The Toronto Arts Council

The Azrieli Foundation

In honour of R.S. Williams & Sons Ltd.

Presenting Partners

TO Live

Flato Markham Theatre

Toronto Summer Music

Festival of the Sound

Scotiafest

Safehaven

Community Partners

Hand Over Hand

Autism Ontario

ASO

Outreach Partners

Women’s Musical Club of Toronto

Want to Support Sensory-friendly Concerts?

JOIN OUR CIRCLE OF SUPPORTERS