The Theatre Royal’s family pantomime Dick Whittington will offer a ‘relaxed performance’ in January next year. This performance will be specially adapted for customers with a wide range of disabilities, those on the autism spectrum, and people living with dementia. It is also ideal for families bringing very young children to experience the magic of their first pantomime.
TV favourite and panto legend Shane Richie (left) leads the cast in the title role, and TV Doctor and children’s BAFTA winner Dr Ranj (right) will play Spirit of The Bells. Performer Kenan-Lewis Smith will star as Dick Whittington’s trusty sidekick, Kitty Cat
Wednesday 3 January 2024 at 2.30pm
On Wednesday 3 January, the 2.30pm matinee performance of Dick Whittington will be performed in a less formal, more supportive atmosphere to reduce potential anxiety levels.
There will be small changes to the sound levels, and the lighting levels inside the auditorium will be increased. No pyrotechnics or strobe lighting will be used and the auditorium doors will be left open so customers can come and go should they need to.
Customers, if they wish, will also be free to move around in the auditorium during the performance.
There will be a chill-out zone in the Dress Circle foyer, with beanbags to sit on and relax. The performance will be sign language interpreted and spaces for wheelchair users will be available. A visual story and notes for parents and carers will be available a few weeks before the performance.
The Theatre Royal’s access and education teams, in partnership with the pantomime’s cast and crew, work closely together to coordinate this special performance in order to encourage more families, schools and groups to be able to participate in and enjoy live theatre.
What to expect
The Theatre Royal’s Front of House Manager, Emily Malen, said: “People coming to a relaxed performance can expect all the excitement of a standard performance but within a really supportive environment.
“In addition to the minor changes we make to the show and the foyer spaces, we create a Visual Story, which we send out in advance to everyone who has bought tickets.
“The Visual Story is a free pictorial guide with more detailed notes about the venue layout and facilities on offer to help customers prepare for the sights and sounds of the experience.
“We can also provide notes for parents and carers to give specific content such as timings, information about the actors and characters they play, as well as a short synopsis about the show.
“Visiting an unknown space can be daunting. If customers aren’t well acquainted with the layout of the building before their visit, they can book a free familiarisation visit.
“It’s amazing how something as simple as this can greatly reduce anxiety and help everyone, including carers, to feel more comfortable about their visit to the theatre.”
Watch Dr Ranj explain what to expect in the relaxed performance
For more information or to book tickets for one of these performances, please call the box office on 0115 989 5555 or email trch.access@nottinghamcity.gov.uk
DICK WHITTINGTON RELAXED PERFORMANCE
Theatre Royal Nottingham
Wednesday 3 January 2024 2.30pm
All tickets £16.50
Box Office: 0115 989 5555
https://trch.co.uk/whats-on/23-24-dick-whittington
More information is available at www.trch.co.uk/relaxed
