Teatro Amazonas celebrates ‘Abril Azul’ with a special concert for audiences with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Photograph:Marcely Gomes / Secretariat of Culture and Creative Economy

Last Wednesday (24/04) Teatro Amazonas hosted the concert “Mozart in the Blue World”, in celebration of ‘Abril Azul’, a month dedicated to autism awareness, and took children, young people and adults to a night of unique experience inside the theater. The initiative is from the Government of the State of Amazonas through the State Secretariat for Culture and Creative Economy.

The event was meticulously adapted to meet the needs of audiences with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), demonstrating a commitment to inclusion and accessibility in the field of arts. From the softest lighting to the controlled music volume, every detail has been carefully planned to provide a comfortable and immersive sensory experience.

Maestro Marcelo de Jesus, a central figure in the conception of the concert, expressed the importance of the initiative in his own words: “Every time we think about making music, we think with this distance between the artist and the public, and today we are making a completely different proposal, bringing an audience that already has a different sensitivity onto the stage, to be close to us”.

Photograph:Marcely Gomes / Secretariat of Culture and Creative Economy

This proximity, according to the maestro, not only enriches the experience for the autistic audience, but also for the artists, promoting a genuine and inclusive dialogue.

Sheila Campos, accessibility advisor at the State Secretariat for Culture and Creative Economy, emphasized the relevance of the celebration, highlighting the ongoing efforts to create more welcoming and inclusive cultural spaces.

“The show, prepared especially for them, offers an environment where the light is softer, the sound is softer and the music is played in a more rhythmic way”, explained Sheila. Furthermore, a special space was created with books and attractions available for those who needed a break during the event, ensuring that everyone felt comfortable.

Photograph:Marcely Gomes / Secretariat of Culture and Creative Economy

Juliana Costa and her 17-year-old daughter Mariana Ludovina were present at the event. The young woman is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and her presence illustrated the importance of the initiative for other families who also have family members diagnosed.

Sitting on the stage right in the center of the orchestra, Juliana shared her gratitude for the unique opportunity to be able to participate and accompany her daughter in an inclusive event. “Wow, it’s been really wonderful. Participating in an event that is fully inclusive of our children here at the theater is a huge benefit for all people who have Autism Spectrum Disorder”, said Juliana Costa, highlighting the enriching experience for her daughter and for all children and teenagers like Mariana.

Photograph:Marcely Gomes / Secretariat of Culture and Creative Economy

Ana Maria Melo, president of the Instituto Autistas no Amazonas, was also present at the event alongside her son Ulisses, aged 19, who also has Autism Spectrum Disorder. She emphasized the fundamental importance of the concert for the social inclusion of autistic people. “This event is fundamental for the social inclusion of autistic people. I am amazed”, expressed Ana Maria, thanking the Department of Culture for the commitment shown.

The “Mozart in the Blue World” concert not only offered an evening of exceptional music, but also served as a reminder of the importance of inclusion and accessibility in all aspects of cultural life. By opening its doors and hearts to autistic audiences, Teatro Amazonas reaffirms its role as an inclusive and diverse cultural space.