Friday, May 17, 2019

UNCW’s SEAHAWK Family Arts Matinees, or SEAHAWK FAM for short, kicks off at 10:30 a.m. on June 20 in Kenan Auditorium and continues through Aug. 1. These creative and entertaining respites from the summer heat are designed for the entire family.

“We started Seahawk FAM to give families the opportunity to experience performing arts together beyond field trips and date nights,” said Kristen Brogdon, director of UNCW’s Office of the Arts. “Beyond our wildest dreams, it has turned into a gathering place for families, summer camps and everyone to enjoy the arts through relaxed, affordable, multigenerational performances.”

All performances are at 10:30 a.m. in Kenan Auditorium:
June 20: South Bossa Project, family-friendly Latin Jazz
June 27: Casey's Laugh and Learn “The Insane Science of Fairyland”
July 11: Broccoli Brothers Circus
July 18: Make Trouble Theatre: A Midsummer Night's Dream
July 25: Shana Tucker “Chamber Soul”
Aug. 1: Wilmington Symphony Orchestra Smaller Bites Trio

The addition of sensory-friendly performances provides the most inclusive arts events in the area, added Brogdon.

Sensory-friendly performances (July 18, 25 and Aug. 1) are open to all, but are designed to create a performing arts experience that is welcoming to those with autism or other challenges involving sensory sensitivities. Accommodations for these performances include:

• Lower sound level, especially for startling or loud sounds;
• Dimmed lights in the theater during the performance;
• Patrons are free to talk and leave their seats during the performance;
• Designated safe space within the venue.

Tickets are $5 per person per performance and can be purchased through the Kenan Box Office (910.962.3500) and online. Group rates are available.

 -- Caroline Cropp

 #ARTS
#ENGAGEMENT