As you like it! ‘Chilled’ Bard plays where it’s OK to chat

FROM opening a sweet wrapper to leaving before the interval, there are many ways for the uninitiated to annoy regulars among theatre audiences.

But the Royal Shakespeare Company is welcoming such disruptions for its current run of Venus and Adonis in Stratford-upon-Avon.

It wants to create a more casual and inclusive atmosphere with its ‘chilled performances’, which allow audience members to talk, leave during an act and even bring along their babies.

The RSC says one of the groups they want to cater for are those with dementia. By relaxing the rules on talking in the theatre, a sufferer would be able to ask their companion a question or take a break during an act.

Mothers with babies are also welcome, as are those with learning difficulties. However, one rule will remain in place – mobiles must still be silenced.

RSC deputy artistic director Erica Whyman said: ‘They are a genuine interruption, not something that cannot be helped.’