Relaxed Performance of The Nutcracker

School children attending a performance at An Grianán Theatre. Photo by Declan Doherty.

After last year’s warm response to our relaxed performance of Peter Pan we are pleased to announce that we will hold a relaxed performance of our Christmas Show The Nutcracker on Thursday 14 December at 11am.

What is a relaxed performance?

Relaxed Performances are specifically designed to welcome people who will benefit from a more relaxed performance environment, including, but not limited to, people with an Autism Spectrum Condition, sensory and communication disorders, or a learning disability. It is also a good way to introduce younger children to live performances in a less formal setting than regular theatre events.

  • There is a relaxed attitude to noise and movement and some small changes made to the light and sound effects.
  • Theatre lights will stay on and people will be warned of sudden noises.
  • For anyone overwhelmed during the performance, a “chill out” area will be provided in the upper foyer.
  • An easy way to understand the atmosphere is perhaps, ‘the opposite of the quiet carriage on a train’.

Why do a relaxed performances?

Many aspects of a standard theatre experience can cause difficulties for children. Busy foyers, unexpected music, lights going up and down and applause can all be unsettling. Even the interval can confuse because it may seem strange to leave the auditorium in the middle of an event.

These performances are for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed performance environment, including people with an autistic spectrum condition, sensory or communication disorders, or a learning disability, or just those who are uncomfortable being in a darkly lit room, or those who feel they can’t sit quietly for an extended period of time.

Can everyone come to this performance?

Yes everyone is welcome, it’s important that those for whom it is intended get to share the experience with their peers and siblings. That’s the joy of a relaxed performance!

Will it be very different from attending a regular performance?

Audience feedback to our Peter Pan relaxed performances was very positive. We made a few subtle alterations – the auditorium lights were only partially dimmed (no blackouts) and any especially loud noises were reduced. Most people felt that it did not affect their enjoyment of the show.

Please contact Daithi or Nicola at the box office on 0749120777 if you have any questions or are interesting in bringing a group.

Latest News

David Gray performing at An Grianan Theatre, Letterkenny in December 2013. Photo by AML Optics. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

25 March 2024

Current Vacancies: MArketing & Box Office Roles

Montage of musicians who have taken part in previous Navigator Jazz Residencies.

26 February 2024

CALL-OUT: Navigator JAzz REsidency

The exterior and plaza of An Grianán Theatre photographed in autumn 2015 by Paul McGuckin.

13 February 2024

Building work commences on our Plaza

Join Our
Mailing List

Stay up to date with all our latest news, events, special offers and more.

Become A
SUPPORTER

Did you know that An Grianán is a registered charity? Help support our work by making a donation.