Two Dublin parks are set to host a series of inclusive outdoor cinema screenings this September, with a focus on creating a relaxed and accessible experience for neurodivergent audiences and families.
Sensinema, a new event series from Happenings and Neuroconvergence, will bring two films from acclaimed Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon to Herbert Park and St Anne's Park.
Song of the Sea. ©Cartoon Saloon
The first screening will take place at Herbert Park in Dublin 4 on Saturday, September 12, with Song of the Sea showing from 4pm.
The second event will take place at St Anne's Park in Raheny on Saturday, September 26, with The Secret of Kells screening from 4pm.
Both events will run from 3pm to 5.30pm, with audiences invited to arrive early, settle in and enjoy pre-screening entertainment and refreshments.
The Secret of Kells. ©Cartoon Saloon
Guests can bring their own food and drink, as well as something to sit on to make themselves comfortable.
The events have been designed with sensory needs in mind.
Every guest will be offered wireless headphones with individually adjustable volume, allowing people to choose a level that works for them.
A soft, low-level PA system will also be available for those who would prefer not to wear headphones, while helping to minimise sound travelling into the surrounding park.
Quiet spaces and a relaxed audience policy will also be in place throughout the screenings.
Organisers say Sensinema is designed to create a calm and welcoming cinema experience where audiences can enjoy the films in a way that suits them.
Song of the Sea. ©Cartoon Saloon
The opening screening will feature Song of the Sea, Cartoon Saloon's Oscar-nominated animated film inspired by Irish folklore.
The film follows a young boy and his sister as they embark on a magical journey connected to Irish mythology and the mysterious world of the selkies.
The Secret of Kells. ©Cartoon Saloon
The second screening will feature The Secret of Kells, another Academy Award-nominated Cartoon Saloon film, inspired by Irish mythology, art and history.
The film tells the story of a young boy living in a medieval abbey who becomes involved in the creation of a beautifully illuminated manuscript.
Both screenings have been supported by Screen Ireland's Audience Development Fund, while Cartoon Saloon has donated the screening rights.
Song of the Sea. ©Cartoon Saloon
Ticket proceeds will support Neuroconvergence's participating neurodiversity charity partners.
Tickets are available at different prices to support accessibility, with an access guide set to be sent to ticket holders before each event.
Children must be accompanied by an adult or carer at all times.
The Herbert Park screening takes place on Saturday, September 12, beside Lolly & Cookes Cafe, with the film beginning at 4pm.
The St Anne's Park screening takes place on Saturday, September 26, beside the Red Stable car park in Raheny, with the film also beginning at 4pm.
Sensinema is being presented by Happenings and Neuroconvergence, with organisers hoping the events will show how outdoor cinema can be made more welcoming and responsive to different sensory needs while retaining the shared experience of watching a film outdoors.
