Relaxed Performance of CINDERELLA Set for King's Theatre Glasgow

The National Autistic Society Scotland helped launch the Relaxed Performance of Cinderella at the King's Theatre in Glasgow today. Families supported by the charity met stars of the panto, Des Clarke (playing Buttons) and Gillian Ford (playing Cinderella) ahead of the special performance on Friday 6 January 2016 at 11am.

Following the success of the Relaxed Performance last panto season, the King's Theatre is proud to once again be hosting a theatre experience specifically designed to welcome people with autism, learning difficulties or other sensory and communication needs.

There will be a less formal atmosphere in the auditorium with a relaxed attitude to noise, and house lights will be kept on low. Lighting, sound and special effects in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be softened to reduce anxiety. Audience members are free to move around and can use the designated chill out areas to relax.

Just last week, the Minister for Childcare praised the efforts of producers who are putting on relaxed performances across Scotland, and called for more venues to include "autism-friendly" performances in their programming.

Alison Cowan, King's Creative Learning Manager and Access Champion is thrilled that the Relaxed Performance is continuing in at King's. She said: "I am delighted that once again the King's is offering this inclusive theatre experience with the support and expertise of the National Autistic Society Scotland.

"It is great to see that just by making a number of small but important adjustments, we can welcome people who might not otherwise experience the magic of live theatre."

Jenny Paterson, director of The National Autistic Society Scotland, said: "Simple adjustments to performances can make a huge difference - meaning that people with autism, and their friends and family, can access and enjoy the wonderful theatre being created here in Scotland.

"Visiting a pantomime is an important Christmas tradition for many families, and I'm so pleased that our charity is working with the King's Theatre for the third year running to make its wonderful show autism-friendly."

The National Autistic Society Scotland provided dedicated training for cast, crew and front of house staff to help tailor the customer experience and ensure families and school groups feel at ease. Staff members and charity volunteers will be on hand at all times during the performance should anyone require assistance.

There are a number of online resources available to help Relaxed Performance bookers prepare for their visit. A Visual Story explains each step of the theatre experience from arriving at a busy box office, taking your seat in a noisy auditorium and audience participation. The Ambassador Theatre Group has also collaborated with Widgit Software to create a selection of symbol resources, including flash cards, to outline the trip and help describe the plot and characters of Cinderella.

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