Everyone at ease at relaxed shows
A VISIT to the theatre can be a life enhancing experience, especially for children and young people, boosting literacy and vocabulary, encouraging communication, imagination and curiosity and lengthening attention span.
Through theatre they are transported into the hearts and minds of the characters, recognising and understanding their actions and feelings, which encourages empathy.
However, a theatre is not a comfortable environment for everyone. Young people with an autism spectrum disorder, a learning disability or a fear of the dark, loud noises or confined spaces can find a trip to the theatre a very challenging experience.
With this in mind, The Lowry in Salford Quays offers ‘relaxed performances’.
Open to everyone, relaxed performances provide a relaxed environment, with elements of the production adapted to reduce anxiety or stress. Lighting and sound levels are adjusted to soften their impact and there is a relaxed attitude to noise and leaving and re-entering the auditorium during the performance. Designated ‘chill-out’ areas are provided outside the auditorium with activities for people to use if being in the auditorium becomes overwhelming for them.
On Thursday, June 28, at 2pm, there will be a relaxed performance of the National Theatre’s acclaimed play, War Horse.
This moving drama is based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo and is filled with stirring music and songs.
It features life-sized horses, operated and brought to life on stage by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company.
For children aged three plus there will be two relaxed performances – What the Ladybird Heard on Thursday, August 9, at 2pm and Stick Man on Wednesday, December 12, at 1.30pm.
What the Ladybird Heard is a ‘glittering stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure, with live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation and lots of laughs’.
In the show, a pair of robbers, Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len, have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. However, they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all – and she has a plan of her own.
Meanwhile Stick Man is an award-winning production from the teams behind Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales and The Scarecrows’ Wedding.
This touching tale features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.
Relaxed performances are not available to book online. To book, call the dedicated access line on 0161 876 2183. For more information visit www. thelowry.com/events/ relaxed-performances.