Two sensory-inclusive performances of “The Magic of Kevin Spencer,” a fun-filled show that combines storytelling, stage magic and audience participation, are set for Sunday, Sept. 18, at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
The performances are presented by UAB Arts in Medicine. The first performance will be at 2 p.m., with the second performance at 4 p.m., in UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center. The performances are free and open to the public, but registration for each attendee is required. Register online.
Kevin Spencer, Ph.D., is an artist who believes in creating inclusive communities where everyone experiences an authentic sense of belonging and no one — for any reason — is relegated to the margins. Spencer is an educator, teaching artist, researcher, consultant, speaker, curriculum designer and award-winning film producer. Widely considered to be the leading authority on the educational and therapeutic benefits of magic tricks in education and rehabilitation, Spencer is a longtime UAB Arts in Medicine partner and returns to Birmingham each September for his annual residency. During this time, he works with patients, community members and health care professionals in various settings, including Children’s of Alabama, the UAB School of Health Professions, United Ability and The Exceptional Foundation.
Doors will open 30 minutes before showtime. UAB’s Alys Stephens Center is proud to be a part of KultureCity’s Sensory Inclusive Initiative. For patrons with sensory processing needs, sensory bags, weighted lap pads and quiet areas will be available.
Contact Lauren Edwards at laurenme@uab.edu with any questions. Attendees can also use this Alys Stephens Center social story to help prepare their family for the show.
UAB Arts in Medicine is a partnership between the Alys Stephens Center and UAB Medicine. AIM is part of a patient-centered approach to health care that addresses the needs of the mind, body and spirit. UAB Hospital is one of the first hospitals in Alabama to have a formal Arts in Medicine program. AIM strives to transform the environment of care and enhance healing and well-being for patients, families and staff through free creative arts experiences in a hospital setting with trained teaching artists-in-residence. AIM includes both interactive and passive arts experiences, which can include bedside and workshop activities, or performances and visual art installations in public spaces. AIM artists approach each patient as a unique individual with a lifetime of experiences.