The Ambassador Theatre Group has announced a relaxed performance pilot scheme for the 2012/2013 pantomime season.
Relaxed performances are aimed at families with children with an Autistic Spectrum Condition, sensory and communication disorders, a learning disability or for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment.
There are likely to be some small changes to the show in terms of lighting and sound cues, but the overall content of the show will not change. There’s also a more relaxed attitude to noise in the auditorium in order to reduce anxiety and ensure a safe, enjoyable theatre visit.
Bookers will be sent a visual story (detailed information and photos), be invited to attend a familiarisation meeting in the theatre and there will be a designated ‘chill-out’ area for use during the performance.
If the scheme is successful, ATG intends to work towards presenting a relaxed performance at one of its West End theatres in 2013.
The Churchill Theatre, Bromley will be the first venue to trial the scheme with a relaxed performance of Peter Pan on 5th December 2012. This will be followed by the Grimsby Auditorium’s Cinderella on 19th December and in the New Year Richmond Theatre in Surrey will present a relaxed performance of Aladdin on 7th January 2013.
The pilot scheme is supported by the Society of London Theatres (SOLT) and the Theatrical Management Association (TMA) who have been collaborating with the ATG on the delivery of these performances alongside pantomime producers UK Productions, Principal Productions and First Family Entertainment.
Theatre staff will also receive training from the National Autistic Society (NAS).
Heather Wildsmith, development officer at The National Autistic Society, who is providing training to ATG, said, “It is great that the Ambassador Theatre Group is working with the NAS to pilot autism-friendly ‘relaxed performances’ so that people with the condition and their families can experience the fun of theatre in an accommodating environment, and we hope more theatre groups will follow suit.
"Autism is a serious, lifelong and disabling condition that can make activities like trips to the theatre difficult and stressful. By training staff in awareness and understanding and making small, practical adjustments to the surroundings and ambience, it can result in a more predictable and less threatening atmosphere and help to lower anxiety.
"These changes can make a world of difference to someone with autism and their family by allowing them access to the joy and magic of live performance, which they might otherwise have been unable to experience.”
All three relaxed performances are now on sale via the venues of www.atgtickets.com.