We may be in a pandemic right now, but the show goes on for Awesome Pittsburgh grant winner Jumping Jack Theater.

While COVID-19 may mean an extended intermission for Jumping Jack Theater’s live performances, audiences can head online to catch them virtually. Right now that’s important for Jumping Jack’s audience, which is mainly comprised of students and individuals who benefit from sensory and autism-friendly strategies.

The theater group previously won an Awesome Pittsburgh grant to help sponsor a performance of Cityscape, their traveling box show built for the classroom. The production aimed to give students the tools to engage with their world and provide a safe space for creative self-expression.

Last year they performed Cityscape in-person at the EQT Children’s Theater Festival. When the annual community event switched to an at-home version this year, Jumping Jack went to work and captured pieces of the production in new ways. “We landed on a calming technique, soundscape activity, and ‘favorite things’ activity led by some members of our creative team. It was our goal to give a slice of our sensory-friendly play at home during this challenging time,” says Claire Sabatine, who is both Marketing Director and part of the creative team.

Even so, the teaching artists are still sad to not see the students on a weekly basis. “We are grateful for our strong relationships with the schools and are excited to pick up where we left off in the fall, or whenever the world allows,” she continued.

“Part of our mission is to engage audiences by revealing multiple pathways on which to explore a common experience — why not add digital experiences to the list?”

Learn more about Jumping Jack Theater and explore their show resources on their website. Online content is also available on their YouTube channel. You can also support Jumping Jack Theater’s mission on their fundraising page.