Theatres are magical places, but can be daunting for some, accessible performances are staged to allow people who find a regular show a bit too much.
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS at the Swansea Grand Theatre regularly introduces performances for people with different needs. This year’s pantomime has had an audio described and signed performance this month, and yesterday it was a relaxed show.
These are perfectly suited to those who might require a more easy-going environment. A regular performances can be overwhelming – a combination of darkness, loud music, sudden noises, all in an unfamiliar setting can make going to the theatre challenging.
Basically, the typical rules have been relaxed to accommodate individuals with autism, learning difficulties, or sensory communication disorders. The noise level is reduced, the house lights are left on, there’s a chill out area and audience members can move around the auditorium and come and go as they choose.
Over 800 people attended the recent relaxed performance of Snow White, a 200% increase on the previous one.
This year’s relaxed performance is only the third the theatre has done and it demonstrates the popularity of this type of accessible performance. The first was attended by less than 200 and the following year it jumped up by 600% and this year tops that.
From what we can see it seems to have been enjoyed by all.
A Grand Theatre spokesperson told us…….
“We were thrilled to see so many people having a fantastic time at the panto yesterday. Without relaxed performances many members of the public wouldn’t be able to enjoy the benefits of live theatre and take part in this festive tradition which is at the heart of a Swansea Christmas. Here’s looking forward to a sell out next panto.”
The relaxed performance for next year’s panto, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, is on 6th January 2023. Tickets are on sale now HERE.
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS runs through to Sunday the 2nd January 2022 with a variety of performance times and ticket prices. You can get all the details HERE.
You can see our feature, and opening night review HERE.
We are also big supporters of Autism Friendly movie screenings, and have a feature running every week with the latest movies. You can check that out HERE.
