Everything You Need to Know for the DSO's Sensory-Friendly Open Rehearsal
Thursday, November 13, 2025
Doors open at 6:45 PM
Wentz Concert Hall: 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville, IL
FREE for all ages
Sponsored by Emergent Learning Centers
Last updated: 11/12/25
11/12/25 update: The DSO has now closed registrations for this event because of the incredible response! We currently have over 530 guests registered for this event.
If you decide that a larger audience might be overwhelming for your group and you can no longer attend, please email us at info@dupagesymphony.org to let us know and we’ll keep you updated on future sensory-friendly opportunities.
When you arrive, please head straight into the lobby. We are not checking tickets, so feel free to roam around the hall, too!
11/11/25 update: We’re thrilled to share that more than 490 guests have registered for our Sensory-Friendly Open Rehearsal! We’re so excited to see such an enthusiastic response — but we also understand that large crowds can feel overwhelming.
If you or your family members need a quieter moment during the evening, please feel free to step into the designated quiet spaces or take a short break in the lobby. You’re welcome to re-enter the hall at any time. Our goal is to make sure everyone can experience the music in the way that feels most comfortable.
If you choose to opt-out last minute, that’s completely fine too. If you are able to email us to let us know, that would be appreciated, though we understand sometimes that may not be possible! info@dupagesymphony.org
Join the DuPage Symphony Orchestra for a relaxed, sensory-friendly open rehearsal designed to welcome guests of all abilities and needs. Experience the orchestra as Maestra Barbara Schubert leads musicians through selections from Echoes of the Past — a program of beautiful, expressive music filled with emotion and history.
This event offers a judgment-free, come-as-you-are environment where guests are encouraged to move, listen, and experience the music in whatever way feels best.
Preview the Music Here!
General Logistics
Entrance: Please enter at the main doors on Ellsworth Avenue. Street parking or garage parking is available (MAP).
No Tickets Needed: No need to bring any tickets with you. Entry is general admission, and once you arrive, please visit the Instrument Demonstration Station, Emergent Learning Center’s support table, or the DSO information table. Feel free to check out the inside of the hall, too!
Attendance: Attendance is expected to be robust, with open seating so you can choose where you’re most comfortable. Feel free to change seats if you want a different view!
- Restrooms: Wentz Concert Hall offers men’s and women’s restrooms on either end of the concert hall on both levels.
What to Expect
Relaxed Environment: House lights will remain up, and guests are free to move, enter, or exit the hall as needed. There is no strobe lighting or flashing effects.
Sound Awareness: Maestra Schubert will announce tempo or volume changes in advance, so you can prepare for louder or quieter moments. For those who prefer quieter experiences, seating near the back rows or balcony is recommended.
Sensory Supports: Guests are welcome to bring headphones, sensory tools, or electronic devices. Orchestral music can exceed 100 decibels.
Quiet Spaces: Designated quiet areas are available outside the concert hall. Ask a DSO staff member if you’d like to use one for a break.
Instrument Demonstrations: Visit the lobby throughout the evening to try a variety of instruments and talk with musicians from Elmhurst University.
Nut-Free Refreshments: Light, nut-free snacks will be available during the break. You might even meet Maestra Schubert or some of our musicians there! Gluten-free options will also be available.
- Other Snacks and Items: Bring any of your favorite snacks to enjoy. No food is allowed inside Wentz Concert Hall, but all patrons are welcome to enjoy their snacks in the lobby. Water bottles with caps are welcome inside the hall. Guests may bring their own comfort items if desired.
Evening Timeline
6:45 PM: Lobby doors open early so guests can explore and get comfortable before the music begins
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM: Sensory-friendly experiences in the lobby are available to guests, including an instrument demonstration station hosted by Elmhurst University Department of Music, supports from Emergent Learning Centers, and an information table staffed by the DSO. Sensory bracelets are available – just ask!
7:30 PM: Orchestra rehearsal begins inside the hall, led by Maestra Schubert
8:30 PM: Short break (approximate time) – refreshments and meet & greet in the lobby with brownies from MyChef Catering
8:50 PM to 10:00 PM: Rehearsal continues
Guests are welcome to stay as long as they’d like — no need to arrive or leave at a specific time!
Accommodation Requests and Parking
DSO staff and volunteers have been briefed on sensory-friendly best practices and are happy to assist families at any time!
If you have specific needs or requests, we’d love to make your visit comfortable.
Please contact us at patronservices@dupagesymphony.org or 630.778.1003 before the event.
Free parking is available in downtown Naperville’s parking garages. (General Parking MAP and Accessible Parking MAP)
Wheelchair spaces are available on both levels of Wentz Concert Hall. Elevators are on the south side of the building.
RSVPs Requested
Admission is free, but registration helps us prepare the best possible experience for everyone. Please RSVP here:
https://ci.ovationtix.com/36623/production/1251890
The DSO thanks Emergent Learning Centers for sponsoring this event
Questions?
Please email info@dupagesymphony.org with any questions!
We look forward to seeing you at our Sensory-Friendly Open Rehearsal!