Nadia Abdelaal on relaxed and chilled performances.
We make adaptations to the shows in order to make the auditorium a more comfortable environment for those who may find it otherwise overwhelming, but still want to enjoy the magic of live theatre. We remove or reduce special effects including loud noises and pyrotechnics. We lower the volume. We operate an open door policy, allowing free movement around the auditorium, and we keep the house lights on at a reduced level. The whole auditorium is also more relaxed, meaning more movement and noise is to be expected throughout. We also adapt our Front of House areas to create safe spaces including quiet spaces, a sensory room with a live stream of the show and a changing room with a changing bed and hoist.
Relaxed and chilled performances turn what could be an overwhelming and stressful experience, into a welcoming and inviting one. They allow us to form relationships with the patrons who attend them so we can adapt our provisions to their requirements. This has included taking on suggestions from our attendees, such as purchasing a permanent changing bed, and adding extra relaxed performances for our pantomime.
We welcome anyone to relaxed performances, but we find they are most beneficial to anyone who is on the autistic spectrum, those with learning difficulties or additional needs, or younger children. The relaxed performances encourage people to react how they please, so more noise than usual can be expected throughout the auditorium. We welcome a mixture of families, groups and SEND schools to our relaxed performances. Our schools’ relaxed performances of our pantomime allow us to meet with new schools and form relationships with them, and it is something the children look forward to year after year.