SpongeBob’s voice will be a little quieter

Canada’s largest movie theatre chain is launching a new initiative to make movie-going a better experience for people with autism spectrum disorder and their families.

In partnership with Autism Speaks Canada, Cineplex Entertainment will begin “sensory friendly screenings” at 12 sites across the country. That includes three in the GTA, in Mississauga, Vaughan and Scarborough.

The theatres will offer higher lighting and lower volume in auditoriums, and screen films in 2D only.

The first screening, featuring The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water, takes place on Saturday, Feb.14 at 10:30 a.m., before the theatres are open to the general public.

Jill Farber, executive director of Autism Speaks Canada, explained that “Individuals with ASD commonly experience challenges in processing sensory information, such as sounds, sights and smells.”

The result can be “sensory overload.

“Going to a movie is a common family and social event that many families impacted by ASD have challenges participating in. Having the opportunity to enjoy quality time, while not having to worry about judgment or complaints, supports an enjoyable experience,” said Farber.

“We’re always looking for ways to make movie-going more accessible and more comfortable for our guests,” said Mike Langdon, director of communications for Cineplex Entertainment, noting the theatre chain also offers the Stars and Strollers program for families with young children. “This program is really an extension of that thinking.”

Langdon said the program will be tested in a limited number of locations to ensure it works well and attracts an appropriate level of interest from families.

“If it does, it’s something we’ll look at expanding to additional locations in the future,” he added.