Brookside Theatre Launches Relaxed Performances to Make Live Theatre Accessible for Everyone
Award-winning Brookside Theatre in Romford is proud to announce the introduction of Relaxed Performances as part of its ongoing commitment to ensuring that everyone can experience the magic of live theatre.
The initiative begins next Wednesday, 12 August, with a special Relaxed Performance of the family musical Diary of a Wimpy Kid, marking an exciting new chapter in the theatre’s mission to make the arts welcoming, inclusive and accessible to all.
Relaxed Performances are specially adapted performances designed to create a more comfortable and supportive environment for audience members who may find a traditional theatre setting overwhelming. They are particularly beneficial for autistic people, those with sensory sensitivities, learning disabilities, dementia, anxiety, or anyone who would simply prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.
During a Relaxed Performance, audiences can expect:
- A welcoming and judgement-free environment where everyone can enjoy the show in their own way.
- Reduced sound and lighting effects where appropriate to minimise sensory overload.
- House lights kept partially on throughout the performance.
- Freedom to move around, leave and re-enter the auditorium whenever needed.
- A relaxed approach to audience noise and movement, removing the pressure to sit quietly throughout the performance.
- Friendly staff and volunteers who are on hand to offer assistance and support.
Brookside Theatre has long championed accessibility within the local community and will soon be launching their Carer Admission Reduction Scheme and hoping to secure funding for wheelchair access and a new accessible toilet ensuring that financial or physical barriers do not prevent people from enjoying live entertainment. The addition of Relaxed Performances builds upon the theatre’s vision of creating a venue where everyone feels welcome, regardless of age, ability or additional needs.
Jai Sepple, Artistic Director of Brookside Theatre, said
“At Brookside Theatre, we believe theatre should be for everyone. Live performance has the power to inspire, educate and bring people together, but we recognise that traditional theatre environments aren’t always suitable for every audience member. By introducing Relaxed Performances, we’re taking another important step towards making our theatre as inclusive and accessible as possible.
We’re delighted that Diary of a Wimpy Kid will be the first production to offer this experience, and we hope many more families who may never have considered attending the theatre before will now feel confident to come along and enjoy a fantastic day out.”
Diary of a Wimpy Kid – The Musical opens next week at Brookside Theatre and promises to be the perfect family treat during the summer holidays. Based on Jeff Kinney’s internationally bestselling books, the hilarious musical follows the adventures of Greg Heffley as he attempts to survive the trials and tribulations of middle school.
The Relaxed Performance will take place on Wednesday 12 August, with the same high-quality production, talented cast and infectious music, presented in a format that allows everyone to experience the excitement of live theatre in a way that works for them.
Brookside Theatre hopes this will be the first of many Relaxed Performances offered across its future programme, reinforcing its reputation as one of Essex’s most welcoming and community-focused venues.
For tickets and further information, visit www.brooksidetheatre.com or telephone the box office on 01708 755775.
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