An Grianán Theatre will hold two specially adapted relaxed performances of their Christmas Show Pinocchio on Wednesday 19 December at 12.30pm and Sat 22 December at 2pm.
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.
- 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!
