Relaxed performance accommodations provide a more inclusive theatre environment for anyone with different abilities who may benefit from a more casual setting, including those on the autism spectrum and neurodiverse individuals with sensory, communication or intellectual challenges. The goal is to welcome and support the diverse ways for patrons to experience the arts.
"We hope to make our performances more accessible to more people, including people on the autism spectrum and people for whom the typical theatre experience darkness in the house or loud noises may be disturbing enough to prevent them from attending," said Michelle Deines, academic coordinator and instructor at CapU, and director of the production of Weasel, which opens on November 18. "This is becoming a more and more common practice in the greater theatre community."
Relaxed performance accommodations will include:
- House lights will remain on throughout the performance.
- Venue doors will remain open, allowing patrons to come and go.
- Audience members can freely move and make noise during the performance.
- A quiet room will be available outside the performance auditorium.
- Stage sounds and effects may be adjusted for reduced sensory stimulation.
- Patrons are encouraged to bring their own sensory support kit, including items like noise-reducing ear covers, fidget toys, (non-gum) chew items or tinted glasses.
Schedule for relaxed performance accommodations:
Weasel
Saturday, November 18 at 2 p.m.
View sensory guide
Clue on Stage
Saturday, November 25 at 2 p.m.
View sensory guide
The Cherry Orchard
Saturday, February 17 at 2 p.m.
View sensory guide
SpongeBob the Musical
Sunday, March 24 at 3 p.m.
View sensory guide
Tickets are available for all performance through the ticket office. Accessible seating must be purchased by calling the ticket office at 604 990 7810.