Relaxed performance
"Relaxed performances have greatly increased in production and attendance in UK theatres throughout my 10-year career in the industry, with many audiences now able to enjoy culture and a night out in a way previously closed off from them. Other types of accessible performances, like signed or audio-described, are practically a UK industry standard now, with most runs of shows having at least one of these, and the inclusion of a relaxed performance continues to go the same way.
A relaxed performance is an adapted version of a show to better serve audiences with a range of access needs, including neurodivergence, sensory processing disabilities, degenerative cognitive diseases, and the need to move or not be silent during the show. Relaxed performances normally include an amount of light on in the audience stands during the show, reduced sound volume, a quiet room available, and enhanced communication to help customers be as prepared as possible for the experience.
It’s an exciting privilege to bring my experience as a British theatre technician and stage manager to & Espoo theatre since I moved here two years ago, from both technical and accessibility perspectives. The technical department here is made up of various individual experiences and backgrounds, and we embrace all our differences and combined knowledge as part of our ethos of continued development and fostering multiculturalism as the international theatre of Finland.
The idea for a relaxed performance for Minna Craucher was born in the theatre’s Diversity, Inclusivity, and Accessibility group, and it is the challenge and humble honour of the whole theatre to bring these other established accessibility practises from the UK to adapt for our theatre, our audiences, and our community. "
Holly Baldwin
Stage Manager
Minna Craucher Musical Thursday 7 November 7 pm
Come to the theatre in a more relaxed atmosphere! This performance is open to everyone, but especially welcomes those who may need to move around or make noise during the show, or who need detailed information about the show's content, sounds, and lighting in order to participate in a way that suits their needs.
The relaxed performance has been designed with considerations for the needs of people on the autism spectrum, and it is organised in collaboration with the Finnish Autism Foundation.
Read more about the musicalWe are making the following adjustments
• The audience area will be less crowded, with some seats left empty.
• The lights in the auditorium will be dimmed but not completely turned off.
• The sound levels will be slightly lower than usual.
• Less stage smoke will be used compared to other performances.
• A quiet room will be available in the theatre for you to rest before or during the performance.
Despite these adjustments, please note that this is still a musical with loud music and bright lights. You are welcome just as you are. Our only request: no shushing others—this is a shush-free event.
A detailed description of the performance and its sensory elements is available in Finnish on our website. If you would like to have it in English, please contact us at info@espoonteatteri.fi
Content description in FinnishBuy Tickets
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