CATS The Musical is already delighting Tauranga locals, with a unique performance  staged for neurodiverse children ahead of tonight's opening show.

Around 70 children with Sensory Processing Disorder - SPD - got to see a customised version of CATS The Musical on Friday at Baycourt.

The Stage Right Charitable Trust alongside Baycourt organised this adapted performance, as some children react strongly to loud noises, bright lights or large groups of people.

The bespoke version entailed the show softening some technical elements, enabling neurodiverse children with sensory, movement, communication and learning needs to enjoy a considerate theatre experience.

This includes children with Autism, ADHD and Tourette’s syndrome.

Changes include a shorter show time of 32 minutes, no strobe light, less lighting changes, lower sound volumes and the ability for the children to move around during the performance.

“We are thrilled to put on this show for children with SPD," says Baycourt Community & Arts Centre Manager Reena Snook.

"Our aim is to make theatre as inclusive as possible for all of our community.

"We encourage all of our theatre partners/hirers to think about accessibility initiatives like this. We enjoyed seeing see the joy on the kid’s faces.”

The audience was also able to participate in a more interactive experience.

“The children also got the opportunity to go on stage and pat the CATS cast as part of the experience," says Stage Right Trust Founder and CATS Director Toni Henderson.

"They can choose to get photos alongside the performers too. That’s why we get into theatre – to spread the love of singing, dancing and acting to all.”

Sensory Processing Disorder - SPD -  is a condition that affects how a person's brain processes sensory information.

Sensory information includes things we see, hear, smell, taste, or touch and can affect all of our senses or just one. SPD usually means we're overly sensitive to stimuli that other people are not.

“We are so grateful these children got to experience this amazing low sensory show in an adapted environment," says Greenpark School Teacher Aide, Rebekah Anderson.

“This way they can be comfortable to sit and enjoy watching the show."

Toni says the beauty of this particular musical is it appeals to all ages.

"Andrew Lloyd Webber has written timeless songs that are captivating and magical," says Toni.

"Our matinee shows have both sold out. We are so excited to bring this show to life for the entire community.”

The award-winning musical CATS opens at Baycourt tonight, Saturday June 15, and runs until Saturday June 22. To buy tickets go to: www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/cats-the-musical/tauranga/tickets