The Small and Tall Ball is a standing tradition in the West Jordan community. This year event planners decided to add a special sensory-friendly dance experience for those who may become overstimulated by the bright lights and loud music, but who still want to participate in the event. West Jordan wants to include everybody to bring the community together and create strong unity in West Jordan. “I have multiple neighbors and family members who get over-stimulated, so they are unable to participate in events like these. We wanted to give them the opportunity and space where they feel comfortable and enjoy events,” Sheri Miller said, event coordinator for West Jordan. Miller came up with the idea of the sensory friendly dance experience a year ago, and it has been a success. This event will happen every February. 

 “We want our sensory-friendly neighbors to know they are not alone and give them opportunities to connect with others who may be in their same shoes,” Miller said. 

West Jordan is creating a safe space at the Small and Tall Ball so everybody can enjoy and the needs of the whole community can be met. With a few small changes they were able to create a fun, safe space and build a lasting memory for community, friends and family. A special session of the dance was held prior to the main event, with no flashing lights, softer volume of music and overall less stimulation. “Knowing that we were able to impact  just one family with this event and create a lasting memory is what we do,” Ashley Dupler said, events manager for West Jordan. 

The theme of this year’s Small and Tall Ball was “Dancing Through Life,” inspired by the movie and musical “Wicked.” Those who attended were encouraged to wear green and pink and encountered a night filled with magic. There were crafts, treats, dancing and a character performance. Adults and children were welcome to attend this fun-filled, magical event. 

Having the sensory friendly dance experience was a “good way to see how we can implement this for other events we do. It’s good to revisit the way we do events to make sure that we are including everyone,” Marie Magers said, communications manager for West Jordan. 

You can check out what's going on in West Jordan by going to www.westjordan.utah.gov