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Cinderella Relaxed Performance

@ Theatre Royal Newcastle

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The Theatre Royal is very proud to announce that we are the first UK Theatre to have been honoured with the Autism Access Award by the National Autistic Society.

‘Relaxed Performances’ are specifically designed to welcome people with an Autistic Spectrum Condition, learning disability or sensory and communication disorders into theatres to give those who otherwise might feel excluded the chance to experience live theatre. They have a less formal, more supportive atmosphere in order to reduce anxiety levels. It is a specialist provision created to provide an opportunity for people who would otherwise find it difficult to come to see a show – for example people who make involuntary noise, or are likely to need to talk a lot, or move around. During a regular performance this can disturb the other audience members, and the show, but at a relaxed performance it’s fine.

Lighting and special effects will be slightly altered – for example removing strobes and flashing lights and reducing very loud noises, however the content of the show will not be specifically changed.

The auditorium may possibly be quite noisy, with people coming in and out – our ushers are there to support and manage this behaviour, rather than stop it.

“Many disabled children and particularly those with autism are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights and generally too much unexpected stimulation. The pantomime can be an experience they long for but they can be freaked out so quickly by sudden sounds. By providing a relaxed performance these children and their families have the opportunity to enjoy the magic of pantomime without the anxiety of the unexpected. The Theatre Royal need to be congratulated on listening to the needs of this vulnerable group, I know the children will have a great time.”

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