Fri · Oct 2 · 3pm
Dora and the Lost City of Gold Sensory Friendly at UCPAC, Rahway
Hamilton Stage, · 360 Hamilton Street, Rahway, NJ 07065.
Every child deserves to experience a movie. Some children process sensory information differently, and loud sounds or sudden darkness can make theater visits overwhelming. UCPAC understands this. On Friday, October 2, the theater brings a sensory-friendly screening of Dora and the Lost City of Gold to Hamilton Stage, welcoming children and adults with autism and other sensory sensitivities to sit comfortably and enjoy a film.
Dora and the Lost City of Gold is a live-action adventure from 2019 rated PG. The story follows Dora as a teenager who has left the jungle for the first time to attend high school in Los Angeles. When she and her friends are kidnapped and taken into the Peruvian jungle, Dora reunites with her cousin Diego and her monkey Boots. Together they navigate ancient traps, solve puzzles, and outsmart treasure hunters to rescue her parents and find a legendary lost city of gold. It is a story about adventure, family, and courage.
What makes this screening different is how UCPAC adapts the experience. The theater lights remain on at 25 percent brightness throughout the entire film instead of being darkened. The sound volume is lowered and stays constant so there are no sudden loud noises or unexpected jarring sounds. The film runs its full length without interruption. A limited number of tickets are sold to keep the audience small and comfortable. Seating is general admission.
The screening takes place at Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway. Doors open at 6 PM, and the film begins at 7 PM. Tickets are 5 dollars with all-in pricing. This affordable, inclusive programming is supported by funding from the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the NJEDA's A.R.T. Phase II Grant Program. You can purchase tickets through UCPAC at ucpac.vbotickets.com or by calling the box office at 732-499-8226. Box office hours are Tuesday-Wednesday 12 PM to 6 PM, Thursday-Friday 12 PM to 7 PM, and Saturday 12 PM to 6 PM.
Find more Rahway family events, accessible activities, and inclusive entertainment on Union County Life.
Photo Credit: Union County Performing Arts Center
FAQ:
Q: What is a sensory-friendly movie screening and who is it for?
A: A sensory-friendly movie screening is adapted for children and adults with autism and other sensory sensitivities. During the screening, the theater lights stay on at 25 percent brightness instead of being dark, and the sound volume is lowered and kept constant so there are no sudden loud noises. This helps people who find darkness or loud sounds overwhelming.
Q: When is the Dora screening and what time should I arrive?
A: The sensory-friendly screening of Dora and the Lost City of Gold is on Friday, October 2, 2026. Doors open at 6 PM and the film begins at 7 PM. The movie runs about two hours. Arrive early to find seating.
Q: How much do tickets cost and what does that include?
A: Tickets are 5 dollars with all-in pricing. Each ticket includes admission to the screening. A limited number of tickets are sold to keep the theater comfortably sized for this type of event.
Q: Where is the screening and is there parking?
A: The screening is at Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street, Rahway, NJ 07065. Parking is available at the venue. For directions, call UCPAC at 732-499-8226.
Q: What is the movie about and is it appropriate for children?
A: Dora and the Lost City of Gold is rated PG and tells the story of teenage Dora on an adventure in the Peruvian jungle to rescue her parents and find a lost city of gold. It is appropriate for children and features themes of family, courage, and friendship. For more information about sensory-friendly events and other family programs in Rahway, visit Union County Life.
