Bangor -
It is the time for Summer blockbuster movies, but for some families in the area, they can't go to the theater because their child has special needs.
A dark, loud theater can be too much for them to handle.
But today in Bangor, the theater was little brighter, and not as noisy.
And it was a little more welcoming for dozens of movie fans.
It's not unusual for kids to be at the theater during school vacation.
"We're going to the movies"
Pixar's Brave was the pick and for Lydia and Ruby, they get to see a movie this time with their little brother Phin.
"Phin never has got to a movie before."
This showing was for kids with special needs after parents asked about a "gentle showing". Guidelines from the National Autism Society were used for a sensory friendly film, according to Bangor Mall Cinemas 10 General Manager Susan Bragdon, "You show a film with the lights up and the sound down and they're encouraged to get up and interact or talk as much as they like."
"I think it's great," said Amy Kimball, who drove to Bangor from Medway for the 10am show. "And we've actually been looking for something like this to bring him out so he can enjoy what the other kids do and not be so overwhelmed."
"There's a huge level of acceptance because everybody is sort of dealing with something similar," said Bangor's Shane Leonard, one of the driving forces behind the showing. "And it's just that sort of conflux of everyone with similar things and trying to have a good time everybody knowing that no one's going to judge you if your child is being a little bit loud, or is so excited that they have to get up and move. These are things that typically during a show you'd frown upon."
This is the first ever attempt for a showing like this in Bangor, and they admit it's a work in progress. They also know it fills a need in the area.
"It's definitely something we want to offer if there's an audience for it," said Bragdon.
"This is the first time he's ever, ever, been to the movie theater and I think that he'll enjoy it," said Kimball about her son.
More than 50 tickets were sold for this show, which all involved thought was a success.
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