Gotta Go Orlando
- Apr 15

Orlando's Dr. Phillips Center renews Certified Autism Center Certification

Dr Phillips Center is only one of two performing arts centers in the southeast region to meet education standards & maintain credentials.

Exciting news as Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts has announced the completion of the recertification process with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the global leader in training and certification for professionals who work with autistic individuals and cognitive disorders.

Following the IBCCES requirements, at least 80% of the Dr. Phillips Center public-facing staff, including guest services, box office, special events and production are trained to deeply understand and accommodate autistic or sensory-sensitive guests and their families.

“Engrained in our culture is ensuring we continue to create a space where all guests feel welcomed to immerse themselves in the arts,” says Kathy Ramsberger, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Center. “In delivering the vision of Arts For Every Life, we remain committed to furthering education and awareness for everyone who comes through our doors.”

This recertification allows the arts center to maintain its designation as a Certified Autism Center (CAC), which was initially earned in 2019.

The arts center continues to implement opportunities for those with autism and other cognitive disorders to access and enjoy the arts. Some of the resources available to guests include sensory-friendly tools to prepare for a visit, American Sign Language interpreters, assisted listening devices and captioning for those deaf or hard of hearing.

In addition to numerous sensory-friendly programming opportunities, including the Pilobolus @ Play residency, inclusive acting classes and the Second City Residency, the arts center has plans to outfit sensory-friendly performance spaces.

For more information visit drphillipscenter.org.

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