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Universal Sphere expands access accessibility offerings



11/28/2022

The Universal Sphere is a free cinematic experience that engages audiences and explores the power of ideas.


Comcast announced that The Universal Sphere, located in the Comcast Technology Center in Philadelphia, will expand its accessibility offerings on Thanksgiving Day with the launch of a sensory-friendly experience.

The sensory-friendly version will include technical updates to make the experience more welcoming for autistic or sensory-sensitive people, as well as those with social, learning, or cognitive needs. Guests who request a sensory-friendly experience can expect sound levels to be reduced, movements to be reduced, and lighting adjustments to reduce blue light and eliminate flashing.

The sensory-friendly experience is the most recent addition to The Universal Sphere's accessibility offerings. The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards designated The Universal Sphere as a Certified Autism CenterTM (CAC) in 2021. (IBCCES). The certification demonstrates Comcast's ongoing commitment to providing accessible, inclusive experiences for all customers across a wide range of products and services.

“Comcast has a longstanding commitment to accessibility that touches every area of our company," said Tom Wlodkowski, Vice President of Accessibility at Comcast.

“We believe passionately in the power of creating experiences that can be enjoyed by everyone. The Universal Sphere is a great example of Comcast NBCUniversal bringing together inclusive technology and a show-stopping entertainment experience to do just that.”

The CAC designation recognizes our efforts to make The Universal Sphere an even more accessible and welcoming experience for all visitors. To better communicate, understand, and enhance the experience for autistic and other neuro-diverse visitors, the certification process necessitated extensive specialized staff training. Prior to visiting, the IBCCES conducted an on-site review to create a sensory guide resource to help individuals better understand its sensory impacts.

“IBCCES is thrilled to work with the team at The Universal Sphere to create a more inclusive experience,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES’ Board Chairman. “Our goal is to help ensure that autistic individuals and their families can have fun and make lasting memories. We know the team at The Universal Sphere is dedicated to providing an exciting and inspiring experience for all visitors.”

The Universal Sphere, which opened in 2019 and has attracted thousands of visitors, is a free cinematic experience that engages audiences and explores the power of ideas. The inspiring short film "The Power of I," produced by Steven Spielberg, DreamWorks Animation, Universal Parks & Resorts, and Comcast Labs, is shown in a public theatre in the building's upper lobby.
The Universal Sphere is wheelchair-accessible and service-animal friendly, with full translations available in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. It is designed to be an inclusive and welcoming experience for the broadest possible audience.

By visiting TheUniversalSphere.com, guests can reserve and download complimentary tickets, request accessibility services, and plan their trip. The Universal Sphere is located in the Comcast Technology Center at 1800 Arch St. in Philadelphia and is open year-round, with extended hours during the holiday season.