What is a Relaxed Performance? Everything You Need to Know

For many, the idea of attending a live theatre performance is exciting and enjoyable. However, for some people, particularly those with autism, learning disabilities, or sensory sensitivities, the typical theatre setting can be overwhelming and stressful.

Relaxed performances are specially designed to address these challenges, offering a more relaxed environment where everyone can enjoy the magic of theatre in a way that suits their needs.

This guide will explore what relaxed performances are, who they are for, and how theatres are adapting to make the arts more accessible to all.

Key Takeaways

• What Are Relaxed Performances? Relaxed performances are specially designed theatre shows that create a comfortable environment for people with autism, learning disabilities, or sensory sensitivities. These performances make theatre more inclusive and accessible.
• Changes Made for Comfort: Adjustments in sound, lighting, and movement are made to ensure a welcoming experience. Audience members can move around, make noise, and use chill-out zones if needed.
• Who Benefits? These performances are ideal for people with autism, learning disabilities, sensory sensitivities, and families with young children. They offer a supportive atmosphere where everyone can enjoy live theatre comfortably.

What is a Relaxed Performance?

A relaxed performance is a specially designed theatre experience that creates a more relaxed environment for everyone, especially those who might find traditional performances overwhelming.

These performances are carefully tailored to create a supportive environment within the auditorium, accommodating people with autism, learning disabilities, sensory sensitivities, or other conditions that can make the typical theatre experience challenging.

The goal is to make theatre more inclusive and accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the magic of live performances in a comfortable and supportive setting.

What Changes Are Made for a Relaxed Performance?

In a relaxed performance, several adjustments are made to the traditional theatre experience to ensure it is as welcoming and comfortable as possible:

• Sound Adjustments: Loud noises and sudden sound effects that might be startling are often reduced or removed entirely.
• Lighting: Instead of turning off the house lights completely, they may be dimmed to a low level, which can help create a more relaxed environment.
• Movement and Noise: Unlike in regular performances, audience members are free to move around, make noise, and express themselves as needed, without worrying about disturbing others.
• Chill-Out Zones: Many venues provide quiet areas where you can take a break if the performance becomes overwhelming.
• Visual Stories: Some theatres offer visual stories or social narratives that explain what will happen during the show, helping to reduce anxiety by setting clear expectations.

Who Are Relaxed Performances For?

Relaxed performances are designed for anyone who might find a traditional theatre setting difficult. This includes:

• People with Autism: The modifications in sound, lighting, and movement create a more comfortable experience.
• People with Learning Disabilities: The supportive atmosphere helps ensure that everyone can enjoy the theatre at their own pace.
• Families with Young Children: Parents with young children or babies may find these performances particularly suited to their needs, as children are allowed to move around and make noise without the usual constraints.
• People with Sensory Sensitivities: Those who might feel overwhelmed by bright lights or loud noises will benefit from the softer, gentler atmosphere.
• Those with Social Communication Disorders: The freedom to move and make noise makes these performances ideal for people with social communication challenges.

Why Attend a Relaxed Performance?

Attending a relaxed performance offers numerous benefits, both for people and families. The relaxed and supportive environment allows everyone to engage with the performance in a way that suits their needs.

Whether that means moving around, making noise, or using fidget devices to stay calm, the flexibility of these performances ensures that everyone can enjoy the theatre experience without stress.

For theatre companies, offering relaxed performances demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity. By making performances accessible to a broader audience, they help ensure that more people can experience the joy of live theatre, making the arts a more welcoming and inclusive space for all.

Theatre Companies Offering Relaxed Performances

Several theatre companies in the UK have recognised the importance of relaxed performances and have made them a regular part of their offerings. Notable examples include Mousetrap Theatre Projects, Old Vic Theatre, and the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG).

Mousetrap Theatre Projects

Mousetrap Theatre Projects is a charity dedicated to making theatre accessible to young people with autism or learning disabilities. They work closely with theatres and producers to create relaxed performances by making adjustments to sound, lighting, and the overall atmosphere. The goal is to create a supportive and more relaxed environment that allows everyone to enjoy the performance comfortably.

In addition to modifying the performances, Mousetrap Theatre Projects also offers access tickets at affordable prices, often ranging from £3 to £20. This makes attending theatre more accessible to families who might otherwise find it difficult to afford such experiences. By ensuring that cost is not a barrier, Mousetrap helps make the magic of theatre available to a wider audience.

Old Vic Theatre

The Old Vic Theatre in London is another leader in offering relaxed performances. They design their performances to be particularly welcoming for families with children who have special needs, ensuring that everyone can feel comfortable and supported throughout the show.

At the Old Vic, audience members are encouraged to move, make noise, and express themselves freely, without the usual expectations of staying still and silent. This approach creates a truly inclusive atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their needs, can enjoy the performance without feeling constrained.

Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG)

The Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) is a major player in the UK theatre scene, and they are also committed to making theatre accessible through relaxed performances. ATG venues across the country regularly host relaxed performances that cater to people who might find traditional theatre settings challenging.

In addition to offering these performances, ATG provides an Access Scheme designed to support audience members with disabilities or additional needs. By joining the ATG Access Scheme, people can access several benefits, including:

• Discounted Tickets: Members can purchase tickets at reduced prices, making theatre more affordable.
• Priority Booking: Access Scheme members receive early access to tickets, ensuring they can secure seats that meet their specific needs.
• Dedicated Support: ATG provides dedicated assistance to help members plan their visits, ensuring that their access requirements are met.

To join the ATG Access Scheme, you can visit the ATG website and fill out the online registration form. Once registered, you’ll receive a membership number that you can use when booking tickets to ensure you get the support and seating you need.

How to Prepare for a Relaxed Performance

If you’re planning to attend a relaxed performance, here’s what you need to know:

• Understand the Environment: The theatre will be more flexible, allowing for movement and noise. Chill-out zones will be available if you need a break.
• Familiarise Yourself with the Show: Many theatres offer visual stories or social narratives that explain what will happen during the show. A visual story includes essential information about the show, its characters, and the venue, aimed at making the experience more accessible and comfortable for people with disabilities and other access needs. These resources can help you or your loved ones feel more at ease by providing clear expectations.
• Check for Accessibility Options: If you have specific access requirements, it’s important to check with the venue beforehand. Many theatres offer services like wheelchair spaces, assistive listening devices, and sign language interpretation.

Final Word

Relaxed performances are an important step towards making theatre accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you have sensory sensitivities, learning disabilities, or simply prefer a more relaxed environment, these performances offer a unique and welcoming way to experience live theatre.

With the growing availability of relaxed performances and initiatives like the ATG Access Scheme, more people can enjoy the magic of theatre without barriers. If you’re considering attending a relaxed performance, now is the perfect time to explore this inclusive and supportive way of experiencing the arts.

Read More: Upcoming Relaxed Performances in London.

FAQs

What is a relaxed performance in theatre?

A relaxed performance in theatre is a specially designed performance that makes adjustments to the sound, lighting, and environment to create a more relaxed atmosphere. This helps make the performance accessible and comfortable for people with autism, learning disabilities, sensory sensitivities, and others who may find traditional theatre settings challenging.

Who can attend a relaxed performance?

Relaxed performances are open to everyone, but they are particularly beneficial for people with autism, learning disabilities, sensory sensitivities, or social communication disorders. Families with young children or babies and anyone who prefers a more relaxed environment in the theatre can also benefit from attending.

How is a relaxed performance different from a regular theatre performance?

In a relaxed performance, several adjustments are made to create a supportive atmosphere. This includes reducing loud noises, dimming the house lights instead of turning them off completely, and allowing audience members to move around and make noise during the performance.

Are there quiet areas available during a relaxed performance?

Yes, most theatres that host relaxed performances provide chill-out zones or quiet areas where audience members can take a break if the performance becomes overwhelming. These spaces help ensure that everyone can enjoy the theatre experience at their own pace.

Can I bring my child to a relaxed performance?

Absolutely! Relaxed performances are designed to be family-friendly, making them ideal for parents with young children or babies. The relaxed environment allows children to move around, make noise, and engage with the performance without the usual expectations of staying still and quiet.

How do I find out if a theatre offers relaxed performances?

To find out if a theatre offers relaxed performances, you can visit the theatre’s website or contact their box office directly. Many UK theatres, including those managed by the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), list their relaxed performances and provide details on how to attend.

What should I expect at a relaxed performance?

At a relaxed performance, you can expect a more relaxed environment where movement and noise are permitted. Loud noises and bright lights are often toned down, and the house lights may remain dimly lit throughout the performance. The theatre may also offer visual stories or social narratives to help you prepare for what to expect during the show.

Do I need special tickets for a relaxed performance?

In most cases, you will need to purchase tickets specifically for a relaxed performance. Some theatres offer access tickets at reduced prices to make these performances more affordable. If you’re a member of the ATG Access Scheme, you may also receive discounts and priority booking for relaxed performances.

Are relaxed performances only for people with disabilities?

While relaxed performances are designed to be more accessible for people with disabilities, they are open to everyone. These performances are especially beneficial for people with sensory sensitivities, autism, learning disabilities, and families with young children who might find a traditional theatre setting too restrictive.

How can I prepare for a relaxed performance?

To prepare for a relaxed performance, it’s a good idea to review any visual stories or social narratives provided by the theatre. These resources can help you understand the performance and set expectations. Additionally, consider arriving early to familiarise yourself with the venue and the available facilities, such as chill-out zones.