Marlowe Theatre to Offer Relaxed Performance of SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS

Following the success of its first Relaxed Performance earlier this year, The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury, is holding another of these special shows.

The pantomime Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs will be specially designed and adapted for people with a wide range of disabilities, including those on the autistic spectrum. Changes will be made to the theatre (for example, chill-out zones will be provided), and to the production (sound levels and lighting will be different, and no pyrotechnics or strobe lighting used), making the atmosphere less formal in order to reduce anxiety levels.

The performance, at 1pm on Tuesday 5 January, provides customers who may find it difficult to come and see a show, the chance to experience the joy of live theatre.

Families, schools and charities who attended last year's Relaxed Performance of Aladdin (the first at The Marlowe Theatre) all agreed it was a great success. Donna Rees said it was a wonderful experience for both her and her son, Finley: "It was just so lovely to actually relax and enjoy a show in an atmosphere of acceptance and fun, no judgemental stares. A wonderful first experience of the magic of theatre for Finley."

Margaret Stirling said it was ideal for her 63-year-old sister, who is severely autistic, adding: "It added to my own enjoyment as well, as my dad and I were able to see her and the rest of the audience enjoying the pantomime."

Madison and Jasmine Gisby (pictured) came with their mum, Elaine. She said: "It was a rare opportunity for us to come out as a family and to relax and enjoy ourselves without worrying about what anyone would think or say. The girls had a wonderful time."

Theatre Director Mark Everett said he was delighted The Marlowe was able to offer another Relaxed Performance: "Audio-described, signed and captioned shows are now standard for us; the former being for our blind and visually-impaired customers, the latter two for those who are Deaf or hearing-impaired.

"To be able to offer customers - especially children - with different access needs to these their own performance, is amazing. And judging by the response we had last year, it was one that was much needed".

To book tickets for the Relaxed Performance of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs, call the Box Office on 01227 787787.

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