Mousetrap Theatre Projects are running their Relaxed Performance of Motown the Musical on January 22nd 2019 at 6.30pm at the Shaftesbury Theatre. In a time of unimaginable change, a man with an unstoppable dream invented a sound that would be remembered forever. With just $800 borrowed from his family, Berry Gordy founded Motown records and launched the careers of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and many more.
The show is full of over 50 Motown classics such as “My Girl”, ‘Dancing in the Street’ and ‘Ain’t no Mountain High Enough’” and “I Heard It Through The Grapevine”. So expect lots of singing, dancing and overall a fantastically fun evening out for the entire family.Relaxed Performances are designed to provide an opportunity for young people with autism, learning difficulties or other sensory and communication needs who require a more relaxed environment.
Normal rules of theatre going do not apply, such as having to keep quiet or sit still. The aim is to offer a supportive, understanding and welcoming atmosphere for all. This means it can get a bit noisy inside the auditorium. If you find that the environment of the theatre becomes overwhelming, there are special arrangements in place to make your theatre experience as enjoyable as possible.
A Relaxed Performances involves:
Adjustments to sound and lighting
Free support resources to help families prepare for their theatre visit
Trained volunteers and staff to help at the event
Chill out zones within the theatre if you need to leave the auditorium
A relaxed and fun environment to enjoy the theatre as a family
Tickets are still available in Band A (Adult £20 Child £10; Front of Stalls & Front of Dress Circle), B (Adult £12 Child £6; Back of Stalls and Back of Dress Circle) and C (Adults £6 Child £3; Grand Circle – Please note that the Grand Circle may not be suitable for those with mobility difficulties or a fear of heights. There are at least 34 steps to this level and it is quite steep. Please do not apply for these seats if they are not suitable for your family), there is still a chance to attend what is positive to be an amazing evening of theatre. Unfortunately there is no longer have any wheelchair spaces available.At least one member of the family must be a young person with additional needs aged between the ages 8-25. Strictly one application per family, maximum 6 people per application. Please contact me at pinkoddballs@hotmail.co.uk if you wish to receive details of how to apply. Tickets are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and are subject to availability.
Further resources to support your visit to see Motown the Musical will be provided soon. Resources in previous years have included an SEN resource pack, a guide to the performance and venue, a story board and a visual story. They will also be offering special pre-show workshops.
Sign up to the mailing list by emailing relaxed@mousetrap.org.uk for all the latest information!
Minimum age recommendation is 8+
The show is 2 hours 45 mins (including the nterval)
The National Theatre are once again catering for individuals who may benefit from a relaxed performance with their spectacular new production of Pinocchio.
About Pinocchio at National Theatre
Pinocchio by Dennis Kelly; with songs and score from the Walt Disney film by Leigh Harline, Ned Washington and Paul J Smith and adapted by Martin Lowe, directed by John Tiffany.
On a quest to be truly alive, Pinocchio leaves Geppetto’s workshop with Jiminy Cricket in tow. Their electrifying adventure takes them from alpine forests to Pleasure Island to the bottom of the ocean.
Certain themes, characters, puppets and moments in the story may be a bit scary for some children and therefore is recommended for brave 8 year olds and above.
Pinocchio is in the Lyttelton Theatre which is a proscenium arch theatre over two levels (Stalls and Circle). The Box Office is on the ground floor and there is flat access from the foyer to the back of the Stalls (row V). The Lyttelton Café and Long Bar are both on this level and the entrance to the Espresso Bar is 3 steps up from the foyer: An accessible toilet and telephones are also located on this level.
About the Relaxed Performance of National Theatre Pinocchio
Relaxed Performances audiences include people with autistic-spectrum condition, sensory or communication disorder or a learning disability. This may include changes in lighting and sound, more freedom of movement with a break out space and friendly ushers; no expectation to stay quiet as well as additional familiarisation of the theatre prior to the performance (such as a visual story of the production posted or emailed out beforehand; with lots of pictures of the building as well as the story).
The National Theatre’s Relaxed Performance of Pinocchio is presented by special arrangement with Disney Theatrical Productions; and with thanks to the Maurice Hatter Foundation, the Stanley Kalms Foundation and the Joseph Levy Foundation for their support towards relaxed performances.
The National Theatre’s relaxed performance of Pinocchio is on 17th March at 1.30pm.
All tickets priced at £16.
To book:
Call the NT Box Office on 020 7452 3000 (quote promo code RELAXED when booking)
Dr.Seuss’s The Lorax is a fantastic story and what a wonderful way to experience it than with live performance. Parents of children with special needs will understand that this isn’t always that easy so it is wonderful that more and more theatres are putting on relaxed performances to make it more of a possibility.
The Mousetrap Theatre Projects Relaxed Performance of
Dr.Seuss’s The Lorax on Sunday 5th November 2017
2:30pm
The Old Vic, London, SE1 8NB
Photo taken of the Original 2015 Company. Copyright Manuel Harlan.
About Mousetrap Theatre Project’s Relaxed Performances
Mousetrap Theatre Project’s Relaxed Performances are exceptional which I think is reflected in the fact that Dr.Seuss’s The Lorax has already sold out! The Relaxed Performances ensure that families with children with special needs receive the best support possible to make their experience as inclusive as possible. They are designed with a more relaxed environment in mind especially for those with autism, learning difficulties or other sensory and communication needs. There are less rules (like having to sit and be quiet), adjusted sound and lighting, trained volunteers and supportive staff, plus resources to help prepare for the visit. A maximum of 6 tickets per application. Photo taken of the Original 2015 Company. Copyright Manuel Harlan.
About Dr.Seuss’s The Lorax
‘I am the Lorax. I speak for the trees!’ Photo taken of the Original 2015 Company. Copyright Manuel Harlan.
The irrepressible, big-hearted, moustachioed critter is back. Following rave reviews and an Olivier nomination for Best Entertainment and Family show. This dazzlingly funny, moving and inspiring show sees the go-getting Once-ler come face to face with the magical Lorax in a battle over the beloved truffula trees and the whole of Paradise Valley. Adapted for the stage by David Greig with music and lyrics by Charlie Fink, Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax is a brilliant riot of eye-popping colour, gorgeous puppetry and infectious music to enchant adults and children alike.
Ticket prices range from £2.50 for a child up to £20 for an adult.
This showing has a limited amount of wheelchair spaces.
Suitable for ages six and over.
Running Time (including interval) 135 minutes.
This is a sell-out show but you can still be added to the waiting list.
The magical dance show The Little Match Girl returns to the Lilian Baylis Studio this December, retelling Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless fable about the kindness of helping others.
This relaxed performance is a less formal theatre experience for those who may be on the autistic spectrum, or have additional sensory and communications needs, or just prefer a less formal theatre setting, offering them a supportive environment to enjoy the show in. To create this environment, performances are adapted in a number of ways including and therefore Relaxed Performance will have:
An altered performance
Lower lighting but house lights remaining on throughout the performance
reduced sounds
wheelchair spaces (please note these have all sold out for this performance)
A designated chill out area available to use throughout the performance
Visual Story and Story Board available before the performance by e-mail when booking
For information on what to expect when you visit, click here to watch their film.
A visual story will be emailed to bookers closer to the time.
Show duration: 1 hour 5 minutes (no interval)
Please note, there is limited wheelchair spaces for this performance.
Tickets: £9
To book, call the ticket office on 020 7863 8000 or click here to book online.
Join the Access Scheme to keep up to date with what’s on at Sadler’s Wells in a format that suits you. If you are in receipt of disability-related state benefits, you may also be entitled to a reduction on the cost of your ticket. Reduced price tickets are limited to one per booking per production.
If you require further information and/or disability related assistance please contact:
Sadler’s Wells, the Lilian Baylis Studio and the Peacock Theatre are all inside the congestion charge zone. If you want to drive in the congestion charge zone between 7am – 6.00pm Monday to Friday, excluding Public Holidays, you will have to pay the £11.50 charge. There are some exemptions and discounts. For more information and to find out how to pay, visit Transport for London. Sadler’s Wells is just inside the zone, depending where you are coming from it is possible to park outside the zone with a short walk to the theatre – this is not so easy at the Peacock Theatre. The nearest car park to Sadler’s Wells outside the congestion charge zone is in Parkfield Street, off Liverpool Road.
On-street free parking in Hardwick Street and other streets off Rosebery Avenue after 6.30pm Mon-Fri and from 1.30pm on Saturdays (heavy fines apply to parking in residents? bays). There is a large 24 hour car park in nearby Bowling Green Lane.
There are 15 spaces in the Sadler’s Wells car park at the rear of the theatre off Arlington Way (postcode: EC1R 1XA) for anyone in your party who is over 65, a member of our Access scheme or a Blue Badge holder. These cost £5.00 for the over 65s and are free of charge to Access members and Blue Badge holders. To reserve a place, please contact the Ticket Office on 020 7863 8000.
The National Theatre, Southbank, London has bookings now open for the Relaxed Performance of Peter Pan showing on Saturday 21st January 2017 at 2pm.
All children, except one, grow up… When Peter Pan, the leader of the Lost Boys, loses his shadow during a visit to London, headstrong Wendy helps him reattach it. In return she is invited to Neverland – where Tinker Bell the fairy, Tiger Lily and the vengeful Captain Hook await. Exploring the possibilities and pain of growing up, it’s a riot of magic, mischief, music and make-believe.
Relaxed performances are specifically designed to welcome people with an Autism Spectrum Condition, sensory or communication disorders, or learning disabilities. There is a relaxed attitude to noise and movement, and some small changes made to the lighting and sound effects. An easy way to understand the atmosphere is perhaps ‘the opposite of the quiet carriage on the train’. There will be a ‘break out’ space and friendly ushers on hand to assist. A Visual Story, a short information document emailed/posted to all bookers prior to performance, will contain information and pictures about the performance, plot, characters and some information about the venue to help prepare visitors for their visit to the theatre. Peter Pan is suitable for children aged 7+. Bookers will need to decide if the show will be suitable for the person’s cognitive (and not necessarily chronological) age.
Peter Pan at The National Theatre is a co-production with Bristol Old Vic; devised by the Companies and based on the works of JM Barrie. Directed by Sally Cookson with dramaturgy by Mike Akers, set design by Michael Vale, costume design by Katie Sykes, lighting by Aideen Malone, music by Benji Bower, sound design by Dominic Bilkey, movement by Dan Canham, aerial direction by Gwen Hales, fight direction by Rachel Bown-Williams and Ruth Cooper–Brown of RC-ANNIE Ltd, and puppet direction and design by Toby Olié. The National Theatre would like to thank Sophie Thompson for developing the roles of Captain Hook and Mrs Darling. The cast includes: Saikat Ahamed, Suzanne Ahmet, Marc Antolin, Lois Chimimba, Laura Cubitt, Phoebe Fildes, Anna Francolini, Felix Hayes, Paul Hilton, John Leader, Amaka Okafor, John Pfumojena, Jessica Temple, Dan Wheeler and Madeleine Worrall.
Running time: 2 hours 30 minutes, including a 20-minute interval
Tickets: adult £16 / under-18s £10
Other Accessible Performances:
Audio-described performances: Saturday 17 December at 2pm, Monday 19 December at 7pm
Pre-show touch tour: Saturday 17 December at 12.30pm
Captioned performance: Wednesday 28 December at 7pm, Friday 3 February at 7pm and Saturday 4 February at 2pm
National Theatre, Olivier Theatre, South Bank, London SE1 9PX
RELAXED WORKSHOP: Junk Puppets
Saturday 21 January, 11am – 1pm, Duffield Studio
A morning of inclusive activities for all the family. With NT workshop leaders, you will design and create your own puppets and learn how to bring them to life. The workshop has been created specifically for families with disabled children aged 6 – 12, but is open to all. All children must be accompanied by an adult, and all adults accompanied by a child. Each adult may only be responsible for a maximum of 2 children.
Directed by Richard Bracewell (2015), PG, 92 minutes
Saturday 11 February, 11.30am, Cottesloe Room
Infectious energy and brilliant gags from some of the team behind Horrible Histories. This film tells the story of ‘what really happened’ during Shakespeare’s ‘lost years’ – how the hopeless lute player Bill Shakespeare left his family and home to follow his dream. Along the way he encounters murderous kings, spies, lost loves, and a plot to blow up Queen Elizabeth.
During the screening, there is a relaxed attitude to noise and movement and some small changes made to the light and sound effects. The cinema lights will be on low and the volume turned down slightly. There will be no trailers or advertisements before the film starts and you are welcome to move around the cinema space if you want to.
Celebrated director and choreographer Arthur Pita returns to the Lilian Baylis Studio this Christmas withð his magical dance theatre show, The Little Match Girl. An unlikely heroine is an impoverished young street girl, who wanders the ever-darkening streets with just one final match to keep her warm on a cold Christmas Eve.
Relaxed Performance Thursday 15th December, 1pm
The Relaxed Performance will have:
An altered performance
Lower lighting
reduced sounds
wheelchair spaces (please note these have all sold out for this performance)
A chill out area
Visual Story and Story Board available before the performance by e-mail when booking
Join the Access Scheme to keep up to date with what’s on at Sadler’s Wells in a format that suits you. If you are in receipt of disability-related state benefits, you may also be entitled to a reduction on the cost of your ticket. Reduced price tickets are limited to one per booking per production.
If you require further information and/or disability related assistance please contact:
Sadler’s Wells, the Lilian Baylis Studio and the Peacock Theatre are all inside the congestion charge zone. If you want to drive in the congestion charge zone between 7am – 6.00pm Monday to Friday, excluding Public Holidays, you will have to pay the £11.50 charge. There are some exemptions and discounts. For more information and to find out how to pay, visit Transport for London. Sadler’s Wells is just inside the zone, depending where you are coming from it is possible to park outside the zone with a short walk to the theatre – this is not so easy at the Peacock Theatre. The nearest car park to Sadler’s Wells outside the congestion charge zone is in Parkfield Street, off Liverpool Road.
On-street free parking in Hardwick Street and other streets off Rosebery Avenue after 6.30pm Mon-Fri and from 1.30pm on Saturdays (heavy fines apply to parking in residents? bays). There is a large 24 hour car park in nearby Bowling Green Lane.
There are 15 spaces in the Sadler’s Wells car park at the rear of the theatre off Arlington Way (postcode: EC1R 1XA) for anyone in your party who is over 65, a member of our Access scheme or a Blue Badge holder. These cost £5.00 for the over 65s and are free of charge to Access members and Blue Badge holders. To reserve a place, please contact the Ticket Office on 020 7863 8000.
With Panto Season just around the corner it is good to see that so many theatres are putting on Relaxed Performances to make it more inclusive for all. I am compiling a list of Pantos with Relaxed Performances showing for the 2016-2017 Season and will add more that I hear of.
What are Relaxed Performances of a Panto?
Of course all theatres may vary slightly with what they offer but in general a Relaxed Performance is an adaptation of the regular Panto but is more suitable for those with autistic, sensory and communication conditions, learning disorders and anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment. Everyone is welcome but the performances are more relaxed – meaning that people will understand if someone needs to clap their hands, make noises or move around the auditorium. Some have fewer seats for sale, providing increased wheelchair capacity and giving audience members more space to make them feel more comfortable.
Lighting effects, noises and elements of surprise are kept to a minimum and with house lights being partially up (also making it safer to move around). Doors may be left open and chill-out areas provided for if the auditorium becomes overwhelming – with beanbags, sensory toys and bubble lights, that can be accessed throughout the show. There is often a chance to become familiar with the theatre and actors before the performance and/or a visual story. Front of House teams are often given specific training if any difficulties arise. Some theatres even have Autism Support Groups on hand to give any advice and information leaflets.
Please contact each theatre to find out exactly what it is they provide before booking. Information is accurate to my understanding at time of publish, gleamed from the individual venues but I take no responsibility for errors and advise checking before placing an order/making plans.
To find about more about this performance or to book your tickets, please call the Box Office on 01483 440000. All tickets for this performance are £9 which includes the Restoration Levy and Booking Fee. When booking your tickets you can let them know if you would like a familiarisation tour prior to your visit.
Friday 16th December 2016
Peter Pan – 10:30am Hawth Theatre, Hawth Ave, Crawley RH10 6YZ
Stars Shaun Williamson, aka Barry from EastEnders, Emma Barton (Honey in Eastenders) alongside Cook and Line, the pirate duo from CBeebies show Swashbuckle.
British Sign Language Interpreted Performance (Signer: Tony Oliver) – Saturday 17 December, 2pm
Sunday 18th December 2016
Robin Hood The Pantomime – 2pm Assembly rooms Ludlow, 1 Mill St, Ludlow SY8 1AZ
The Box Office is open from 10am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday: 01584 878141. £5 child, £8 adult, £22 family. Support companions go free, but still must book in advance. You can also book online, by post or in person.
Monday 19th December 2016
Snow White and Other Tales from the Brothers Grimm – 12 Noon
Oxford Creation Theatre: North Wall Arts Centre, Oxford OX2 7JN
Cinderella – 12 Noon
Oxford Creation Theatre: The Mill Arts Centre Banbury X16 5QE
Tickets are now on sale but if you have any questions, please call the Box Office on 01865 766266. For those who would benefit from the adapted performance, a special Relaxed Ticket at £10.
Dick Whittington and His Amazing Cat – 1:30pm Chequer Mead Theatre, De La Warr Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 3BS
Starring Really Wild Show presenter Howie Watkins, BBC Sussex and Surrey’s Allison Ferns and Brookside actor Allen Mechen.
For tickets, call the box office on 01342 302000 or go tochequermead.org.uk.
Wednesday 21st December 2016
Snow White- 2pm
Liverpool Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE
TV favourite Jorgie Porter* (Hollyoaks, I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!) will be making her pantomime debut as she heads up this year’s cast in the title role of Snow White! Jorgie will be joined by Radio City 96.7 Breakfast Show’s Leanne Campbell (a much-loved member of the Empire panto family, now in her fourth year) as the Wicked Queen, and back by popular demand is Liam Mellor as the lovable comic, Muddles
The theatre does not have its own parking facilities but Liverpool boasts many city centre car parks with reasonable rates and many are within 5 minutes’ walk of the theatre. The closest car parks are located at Mount Pleasant, Lord Nelson Street, Queen Square and at St John’s Shopping Centre on Lime Street. St. John’s Car Park offers discounted parking of £2.00 for patrons visiting the Liverpool Empire after 6.00pm and leaving before midnight (car park ticket must be validated in the theatre foyer).
0844 871 7677 (Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge)
Wednesday 28th December 2016
Sleeping Beauty – 17:00
Sunderland Empire. High Street West, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3EX
Vicky Entwistle (Coronation Street, Les Misérables, The Vagina Monologues) is set to reveal a wicked side when she takes on the evil role of Carabosse, alongside actress and ‘Steps’ star Faye Tozer, who is set to sparkle as the Good Fairy and children’s TV favourite Andrew Agnew (CBeebies, Balamory), who returns to Sunderland following his triumphant panto performance in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 2014, in the role of Silly Billy and also as director of this year’s pantomime!
Joining them is Amy-Leigh Hickman as Princess Briar Rose, who is best known for playing Carmen in the popular CBBC series Tracy Beaker, plus spin off series The Dumping Ground and more recently as Linzi Bragg in Eastenders. The line-up is completed by special guest star and legend of radio, screen and stage, Bobby Crush (Opportunity Knocks, Benidorm, The Rocky Horror Show, Chicago) as Nurse Kelly.
Access Bookings: 0844 871 7677 (Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge) Mon-Sat, 9am-10pm. Sun 10am-8pm
Thursday 29th December 2016
Cinderella – 13:30
Bristol Hippodrome Theatre, St Augustine’s Parade, Bristol, BS1 4UZ
Torvill & Dean take to the stage as the Fairy Godparents. The classic rags to riches tale Cinderella will be transformed into a breath-taking family extravaganza with glittering sets, gorgeous costumes, big song and dance numbers, real Shetland ponies and jaw-dropping skating sequences.
If you require information about parking for patrons with a disability please call 0117 3023222 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm) or email trishhodson@theambassadors.com
Access Bookings: 0117 3023222
Friday 30th December 2016
Aladdin – 13:00
Opera House Manchester, 3 Quay Street, Manchester, M3 3HP
Loose Women and Benidorm favourite, and star of the all-new Are You Being Served?, Sherrie Hewson, will be appearing as The Genie of the Ring, opposite one of Manchester’s best-loved actors, John Thomson (Cold Feet) as the evil Abanazar. Pop sensation Ben Adams (A1) will tread the boards as the title role, Aladdin, and to complete the line-up, writer, director and one of the best dames in the business, Eric Potts will star as Widow Twankey!
A sensational cast led by soap royalty Shane Richie and Jessie Wallace in the South Coast’s biggest family pantomime! Relaxed Performance supported by Blaze Construction Ltd. Contains strobe lighting.
Jack and the Beanstalk – 1.30pm and 7.15pm Theatre Royal Nottingham, Theatre Square, Nottingham NG1 5ND
This year’s GIANT family-friendly panto adventure stars the legendary comedy-duo The Chuckle Brothers as Paul and Barry Trot, Benidorm’sTony Maudsley as Dame Trot, and The X Factor finalist Chico as Jack, the hero of our tale. This unmissable production carries the Theatre Royal pantomime hallmark of outstanding entertainment for all ages and features laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning costumes and scenery, and amazing special effects as the audience and cast enter the Giant’s castle in spectacular 3D!
Access Performances
Sign Language Interpreted15/12/2016 1:30 pm
Audio Described17/12/2016 2:30 pm
Sign Language Interpreted18/12/2016 1:30 pm
Captioned07/01/2017 2:30 pm
Audio Described08/01/2017 1:30 pm
Sign Language Interpreted13/01/2017 7:15 pm
Call Caroline Pope on 0115 989 5627 for further details and to book. £2 for online bookings or £3 for phone & counter sales applies per transaction.
Thursday 5th January 2017
Jack and the Beanstalk – 10am The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ
There will be an audio described performance and touch tour for the performance on Wednesday 4th January @ 2.00pm and a sign language interpreted performance on Saturday 7th January @ 2pm
For the Relaxed Performance: 01242 695574
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs – 19:00
New Victoria Theatre. The Ambassadors, Peacocks Centre. Woking, Surrey, GU21 6GQ
The job of head dwarf Prof is a tall order but nothing that TV and film star Warwick Davis can’t measure up to. Known to millions from his roles in Star Wars, the Harry Potter series and Willow, as well as TV comedy series Life’s Too Short and Idiot Abroad 3, he will ensure that the pantomime won’t be short of laughs this Christmas. Joining him is comedy favourite Andy Ford as the Henchman.
Access Bookings: 0844 871 7677 Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.
Sleeping Beauty – 13:30
Richmond Theatre, The Green, Richmond. Surrey, TW9 1QJ
Maureen Lipman makes a welcome return to Richmond’s spectacular Panto as the Wicked Fairy. With a catalogue of acting credits for television, stage and film, Maureen is well-known for her roles in films Educating Rita and the award-winning The Pianist. Joining her after two highly successful pantomimes at Richmond will be none other than CBeebies favourite Chris Jarvis in the role of Chester the Jester, returning for a third year in a row, due to overwhelming popular demand.
Access Bookings: 0844 871 7677 Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.
Returning for the second year running as one half of them awfy Ugly Sisters is Gregor Fisher (Rab C Nesbitt, Naked Video). Gregor’s old chum Tony Roper (Rab C Nesbitt, The Steamie) is back in his squad as a fellow ugly alongside King’s panto favourite Des Clarke (Capital FM) as Buttons. River City’s Gary Lamont stars as Dandini with Elaine MacKenzie Ellis (Rab C Nesbitt, Me Too) as the Fairy Godmother also taking to the ballroom floor. Completing the cast is our Prince Josh Tevendale (Avenue Q) and of course, Cinderella herself, Gillian Ford. It’s gonnae have to be some size of pumpkin carriage for this lot!
Glasgow City Council operates a supervised 24hr, pay-on-foot (credit cards accepted) multi-storey car park behind the theatre in Elmbank Crescent with access via Elmbank St. Parking after 6pm costs £2.50 and this charge entitles you to park until 8am the following day. This car park has spaces reserved for people with disabilities.
Access Bookings: 0844 871 7677 Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.
Wednesday 11th January 2017
DIck Whittington 11:00
New Wimbledon Theatre, The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG
The Home of London Pantomime is thrilled to announce the strictly sensational Arlene Phillips CBE will make her pantomime debut in this year’s Dick Whittington alongside the return of the side-splittingly hilarious Tim Vine and the best dame in the business, Matthew Kelly.
Access Bookings: 0844 871 7677 Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.
Box Office on 0115 941 9419 for more details on Relaxed Performances. We are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding familiarisation visits, wheelchair access and disabled parking, all you need to do is email access@nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk.
JOHN BARROWMAN, STEVE MCFADDEN, THE KRANKIESand MATT SLACK
Captioned: Sunday 8th January 2017 1pm and Wednesday 11th January 7:15pm
Signed: Sunday 15th January 2017 1pm & 5:15pm
Audio Described: Wednesday 18th January 2017 2pm & Saturday 21st January 2017 2:30pm.
No Under 3s
For further information, please contact Liz Leck, Creative Learning Manager, on 0121 689 3064 or lizleck@birminghamhippodrome.com. Please note, this contact is for information only. Bookings MUST be made through the Ticket Sales number on 0844 338 5000 (Call cost 4.5p per min plus access charge).
I was also told of the following:
Oldham – Coliseum – Sleeping Beauty
Audio Described: Tuesday 13 December, 7.30pm
BSL: Thursday 15 December, 7.30pm
Bolton – Octagon Theatre – Cinderella
Audio Described: Friday 2 December 7:00pm
BSL: Friday 9 December 7:00pm
Captioned: Friday 16 December 7:00pm
Manchester – The Lowry – Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
BSL: Thursday 15 December, 7.30pm.
Audio Description: Sunday 18 December, 2pm. Free Touch Tour 12.30pm.
Relaxed: Thursday 22 December, 2pm – please book in person or over the phone on 0843 208 6010.
Captioned: Tuesday 10 January, 7.30pm
If you know of any other Relaxed Performance Pantos then please contact me on pinkoddballs@hotmail.co.uk and I can add them in.
A Relaxed Performance of BOY, a new play by Leo Butler, directed by Sacha Wares, will take place at the Almeida Theatre on Wednesday 11 May at 1.30pm. All tickets will be £10; tickets for companions and support workers are free.
A boy.
At a bus stop.
Easily missed.
Boy is an ambitious, timely exploration of austerity London. Master of observation, Leo Butler casts a sharp eye over contemporary London and picks out someone for us to follow. Boy is an important new play about coming of age in twenty first century London.
About the Relaxed Performance of Boy at Almeida Theatre
The Relaxed Performance has been specifically designed to welcome people who will benefit from a more relaxed performance environment, including people with an Autism Spectrum Condition, sensory and communication disorders, or a learning disability. People have the freedom to come and go as necessary, and a chill-out area is provided for those who need a quiet space. There is a relaxed attitude to noise and movement and some small changes are made to light and sound effects.
To help the audience prepare for their visit a Visual Story will be distributed with photographs of the Almeida building and auditorium, the set, and the characters in Boy. The audience will have the opportunity to attend a familiarization visit at the theatre before the performance, and to meet the cast on the day. The Almeida Participation team are offering specialist workshops to give groups the chance to explore themes from Boy in a creative, open environment. Alongside the Relaxed Performance workshops are on offer for groups to explore the themes of Boy, as well as a familiarization visit and Visual Story.
Boy has a running time of approximately 80 minutes with an age guidance of 14+.
Following Boy, a Relaxed Performance of THEY DRINK IT IN THE CONGO, a new play by Adam Brace, directed by Michael Longhurst, will take place on Wednesday 21 September at 1.30pm.
Relaxed Performance
Wednesday 11 May at 1.30pm
Address
Almeida Theatre, Almeida Street, London, N1 1TA
Tickets
All tickets for the Relaxed Performance of Boy are £10; all tickets for companions and support workers are free but must be booked via the Box Office.
RELAXED PERFORMANCE OF WONDER.LAND Thursday 21 April 2016 at 7pm in the Olivier Theatre, National Theatre
Brinkhoff Mogenburg
A Relaxed Performance of WONDER.LAND will take place on Thursday 21 April at 7pm in the Olivier Theatre at the National Theatre South Bank, London, SE1 9PX
Wonder.land is a new musical inspired by Lewis Carroll’s iconic story, wonder.land is a coming-of-age adventure that explores the blurred boundaries between our online and offline lives. Combining live theatre and digital technology in dazzling new ways, wonder.land is a musical like no other: Aly is struggling with all the pressures of being a teenager: family, school, friends and her own insecurities. Then she discovers wonder.land – a mysterious online world where, perhaps, she can create a whole new life. The web becomes her looking-glass – but will Aly see who she really is?
Brinkhoff Mogenburg
Specifically designed to welcome people with a learning disability, Down’s Syndrome, autism or sensory and communication disorders into the theatre, Relaxed Performances give those who otherwise might feel excluded the chance to experience live performance. Relaxed Performances have a less formal, more supportive atmosphere in order to reduce anxiety levels. There is a relaxed attitude to audience noise and movement and some small changes made to the light and sound effects. Parts of the theatre foyer will be available as a quiet space for those who need to leave and re-enter the auditorium during the show. After the performance, the audience will have the opportunity to stay to meet the actors who will be in costume but out of character. ‘Visual stories’, which give information about the theatre and the show, will be provided to all bookers to help support their visit.
WONDER.LAND has a running time of approximately 2hrs 30 including an interval.
All tickets are priced at £5.
Suitable for children 10+. The storyline features challenging and current issues of teenage life in the 21st century.
Includes slang, explicit language and scenes of bullying and teasing.
Birmingham Town Hall do it again by providing an inclusive Relaxed Concert, designed to introduce audiences to music they know and love, all in an everyone-friendly, family-friendly, Autism-friendly atmosphere. Featuring Sutton Coldfield born Ventriloquist James Rowney, his puppet Little Jim and Orchestra of the Swan.Audiences with be taken on a magical musical adventure featuring Disney favourites, wizards and William Tell, all accompanied by live music from Orchestra of the Swan; at Birmingham Town Hall on Sunday 10th April 2016 3pm-4pm.
About James Rowney
James is such an inspiration and gives hope to those with autism, and/or to parents who fear for the future: Due to graduate from Stafford University with a Foundation Degree in Musical Theatre in July this year, James has already secured roles in Cinderella, Peter Pan, Jesus Christ Superstar, and now, he takes the lead in The Relaxed Concert at Town Hall. He’s proven that his abilities far outweigh any disabilities he might have, and isn’t letting Autism stand in his way.
About THSH Relaxed Performances and Relaxed Concerts
THSH are celebrating ability, not disability, and completely changing the way people with Autism experience music. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families to come together to enjoy quality time and to meet with other people who also understand the challenges and opportunities that come with Autism. Relaxed performances at Town Hall are open to everyone, but are designed to be welcoming for people with an Autistic Spectrum condition, a learning disability or a sensory and communication disorder. For those performances the rule book is thrown out the window – audiences are encouraged to cheer, clap, talk, laugh or even dance if they want to! Intended to be less formal and embrace different types of audience reactions, the show will incorporate changes to the lighting and sound levels, as well as a quiet zone, chill-out areas away from the auditorium and additional wheelchair spaces. A story guide and video guide will be available on the THSH website for families to prepare before their visit.THSH has donated 50 tickets to Autism West Midlands in order to invite people from their Family Services Network at no cost. For some, this may be the first time they are able to experience live music in this way as a family.
Chris Proctor, Programme Manager for THSH, said: “Unlike many other relaxed performances which are adapted from a run of shows, ours has been designed specifically from the ground up. We have listened to exactly what our audience wants, through our work with James and Autism West Midlands, and then created something entirely new for them. What this means is that for many people with an autism spectrum disorder or learning disability, live music is finally accessible.It is amazing to see first-hand the artistic development in James as a young person with autism. Whilst we are trying to break down barriers of access, James is breaking down barriers of achievement and completely tearing up the rule book! We are really looking forward to welcoming families to this concert, and many more similar events in the future.”
We previously attended The Relaxed Perfomance of The Gruffalo and were very impressed with the lengths that THSH are going to, to ensure that access is fully inclusive. The welcome any feedback and/or ideas for further improving experiences.
In a time of unimaginable change, a man with an unstoppable dream invented a sound that would be remembered forever. With just $800 borrowed from his family, Berry Gordy founded Motown records and launched the careers of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and many more.
Relaxed Performances are designed to provide an opportunity for young people with autism, learning difficulties or other sensory and communication needs who require a more relaxed environment.
At least one member of the family must be a young person with additional needs aged between the ages 8-25. Strictly one application per family, maximum 6 people per application. Please contact me at pinkoddballs@hotmail.co.uk if you wish to receive details of how to apply. Tickets are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and are subject to availability.
Minimum age recommendation is 8+
Audiences with be taken on a magical musical adventure featuring Disney favourites, wizards and William Tell, all accompanied by live music from Orchestra of the Swan; at Birmingham Town Hall on Sunday 10th April 2016 3pm-4pm.
THSH has donated 50 tickets to Autism West Midlands in order to invite people from their Family Services Network at no cost. For some, this may be the first time they are able to experience live music in this way as a family.
It is amazing to see first-hand the artistic development in James as a young person with autism. Whilst we are trying to break down barriers of access, James is breaking down barriers of achievement and completely tearing up the rule book! We are really looking forward to welcoming families to this concert, and many more similar events in the future.”