A relaxed performance is a show adapted to support neurodiverse and autistic people and those with learning disabilities or other sensory and communication needs.

We aim to reduce anxiety and risk for audience members by addressing the numerous (additional) barriers that this audience group might face, to create an inclusive, supportive, understanding and welcoming atmosphere.

Relaxed performances were initially targeted specifically at autistic people and their families; you may often have heard about ‘autism-friendly performances’ as well.

Since then we’ve discovered that many people who are not autistic also benefit from relaxed performances. This includes those with learning disabilities; those with ADHD or dyspraxia; those with sensory needs; people with dementia; and just those who haven’t been to the theatre before and feel nervous about the new experience.

And of course it’s also for their friends, families, carers, classmates, colleagues, and so on.

In summary: anyone who thinks they might benefit from a relaxed performance, is welcome at a relaxed performance.

Autistic people and others can face barriers to going to the theatre which other people don’t experience. These can include the direct barriers - things like overwhelming sounds and lights, or busy crowded spaces. But they can also include fear of the unknown; worry that other audience members will judge or criticise them; and so on.

By offering a relaxed performance, you help to open up the magic of theatre to new audiences. This is good for two reasons. Firstly, it’s the right thing to do: everyone should be able to enjoy theatre. But, it’s also good for audience development: many people who attend relaxed performances go on to become regular theatregoers, so you are increasing your customer base in the process.

It includes provision and support at all stages, from the booking process, providing materials to help the audience prepare, briefings and training for cast, crew and FoH staff and adjustments to the show and the building. You can find out more about the process we go through to create a relaxed performance on our Relaxing Shows and Venues page.

When we go and see the show initially, we’ll give you a full report of all the things we think could or should be changed. But, that is just the start of the conversation. We can work with your technical and production teams to find the right balance between relaxing the show and maintaining the magic of the theatre: for example, if an illusion relies on strobing lights to work, then we’d rather keep the illusion in than lose it. Giving theatregoers the full experience of the show is our top priority.

Marketing to new audiences can certainly be a challenging part of running a relaxed performance; we want to get as many people as possible to know about the show and come to see it! We are not professionals in marketing or PR and we can’t promise ticket sales; but we do have many contacts in theatre and disability organisations who can help to reach the right audiences. We also have experience working with press. Importantly, we’ll always be honest with you in advance about potential uptake.

No, absolutely not. Regular relaxed performances in your schedule are very useful especially for those with complex needs, and those who’ve never been to the theatre before. But many people don’t actually require all the changes of a relaxed performance, and some changes can easily be made to any show (e.g. letting people sit in a corner where they can discreetly come in and out, or even just sending them the visual story in advance). A combination of relaxed performances and general access options is the ideal scenario.

Our Relaxing Shows and Venues section shows the full process we can support with. This is our comprehensive package, but some theatres or productions may not need every element; we can tailor what we provide bespoke for you. Remember that any show can be relaxed (yes, we mean any) and this will look different for different shows: we’re always happy to have an initial chat to explain how we’d approach your show if you think there are elements which will be difficult to adapt.

We welcome the chance to work with anyone from a West End show through to a community theatre. We can also work with arenas and concert venues, immersive experiences and arts festivals, and will tailor our advice and support to your specific needs. We’re both based in the UK but are also very open for requests from other countries; just get in touch!