We are really looking forward to visiting more relaxed performances this year. As they become more popular, this gives greater choice for a whole range of experiences. Most theatres offer a carers ticket, so it is worth looking into this before making your purchase.
If you have not been to one before, a relaxed performance is an event that is designed to create a more inclusive environment for individuals with a learning disability, sensory issues, autism, and other neurodiverse conditions.
Prior to a relaxed performance, the audience is usually given access to a relaxed performance guide, giving details of the venue, staff, show and cast. This can either be sent through the post or more often than not is available online.
During the performance, various changes are made to the theatre experience to reduce potential barriers. These changes may include: lights and sound on low, and reduction on the number of special effects to create a more calming environment.
Audience members are free to move around, leave and re-enter the seating area, or sit in chill-out areas if required. Visual aids such as signage, or social stories (this could be in the relaxed performance guide) may be provided to help visitors understand the structure of the performance and what to expect.
Sensory toys may be available for hire or are given to audience members. One theatre where Poppy goes always gives her stickers to take into the performance to keep her busy whilst she is waiting for the show.
Ear defenders may also be available. Stimming, such as rocking or hand-flapping are embraced and accommodated as are involuntary sounds.
Staff and performers are usually trained to accommodate the needs of audience members to make for a more enjoyable performance overall.
Here are our top nine. Let us know if there are any others you think we should add to our list.
Number 9
Birmingham Royal Ballet – The Nutcracker, Birmingham Hippodrome. Tuesday December 3, 2024. Contact venue for ticket details.
Number 8
Matilda the Musical, Cambridge Theatre. November 3, 2024 at 3:00pm. Contact venue for ticket details.
Number 7
The Secret Garden, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Sunday, July 14 2024 at 5:00pm. Contact venue for ticket details.
Number 6
The Lion Inside, Curve Theatre, Leicester. Saturday August 10 2024, 1.30pm. Tickets £10-£16
Number 5
The Snowman – Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Wednesday, December 4 2024 at 2:30pm. Contact venue for ticket details.
Number 4
Disney’s The Lion King, Lyceum Theatre. Sunday, June 30, 2024 at 1:30pm. Contact venue for ticket details.
Number 3
A Chorus Line, Curve Theatre, Leicester. Saturday July 13 2024 at 2.15pm. Tickets £10 – £49.50
Number 2
Disney’s Aladdin, Birmingham Hippodrome. Wednesday, October 23, 1pm. Contact venue for ticket details.
Number 1
Frozen, Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Sunday, April 28th, 2004. Ticket prices £20-£49.50
Poppy is pictured at Loughborough Town Hall ready to watch the relaxed performance of Beauty and the Beast. Watch out for our pick of relaxed performance Christmas and new year shows later in the year.
