The Commodore Cinema in Ryde is introducing dedicated SEN screenings designed to create a more comfortable and inclusive experience for those who benefit from a sensory-friendly environment, with the first session taking place this week.
The new screenings will give cinema-goers the choice of watching the same film in 1 of 2 auditoriums.
In 1 screen, the lights will remain on and the volume will be lowered to provide a more relaxed environment. The second screen will offer the film with the lights off and the usual sound level, allowing guests to choose the setting that best suits their needs.
Visitors will also be be able to move freely between the 2 screenings, helping them find the environment that works best for them throughout the film.
The sessions are being promoted as ‘no-judgement’ screenings, with guests encouraged to move around, make noise and take breaks whenever needed.
The first screening will feature Toy Story 5 at 11:00 on Thursday (16th July) and is open to all ages. Tickets are priced at £3.50 per person as part of a reduced-rate offer.
The Commodore Cinema says the initial screening is intended to gauge interest and identify the most suitable days and times for future sessions. Weekend and after-school screenings are also planned, with toddler-friendly sessions set to follow.
The initiative aims to make the cinema a safe and welcoming space for everyone, giving families and individuals the flexibility to enjoy the big screen in an environment that best meets their needs.
We all need to support the cinema and bingo hall. It’s the last original cinema left. Plus the Bingo Hall is the only one left too. I know the cinema in Newport is bigger but it’s twice as expensive. The Commodore is part of the islands history.
A great place.
I love the cinema but I go to watch the film not listen to conversations on mobiles, people constantly talking and moving around. If I want that I can go and sit in a cafe on the beach.
If thats the case I’ll be going less
Nothing worse than having kids screaming, running around, moving seats and yakking
will they ensure that those of us who want to watch on the big screen, in darkness, loud sound and doors closed, without endless streams of people walking in and out during the screening are accommodated under their new inclusive plans
if not, then i wont be watching anything there again. Last thing i need is my enjoyment ruined by parents/carers of SEN kids/adults that will make a lot of noise walking in front of the screen and ruining the show..
I fully support Ryde Commodore, what I don’t support is unruly behaviour, phone screens lighting up the cinema by selfish people who don’t give a fig for anyone else, my friend had a stay in St Mary’s & this Special needs kid kept everybody awake, smoked where he wanted, but was left unchallenged WHY !!!!
Making noise left unchallenged is not the way, they either need to learn how to behave & what is acceptable in society or be kept segregated if violent, look at that poor baby thrown in the crocodile pit by a special needs person, separate viewings for them.