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Alhambra Theatre in Bradford to Stage Its First Relaxed Performance During Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime Season

As preparations gain momentum for Yorkshire’s biggest pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, starring Billy Pearce, John Challis, Lisa Riley and Jake Canuso, staff at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford are busily making final plans for the Theatre’s first ever Relaxed Performance, which will be staged on Tuesday 12 January 2016 at 2.00pm.

 

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The Relaxed Performance is aimed at anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed theatre environment including people who are on the autistic spectrum or who have sensory and communication disorders or a learning disability.   Michael Harrison, Managing Director of pantomime producer Qdos Entertainment, and executive producer of Jack and the Beanstalk explains: “We work closely with the cast, production team and theatre staff to plan some small changes to the show for this performance. For example, the main auditorium doesn’t become completely dark and we remove loud and sudden noises and flashes from the show. We also talk to experts about the script to make sure that any lines the cast deliver which could be interpreted too literally are modified if necessary, without compromising the exciting story we are trying to tell.”   Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres added: “As well as small changes to the show, we will also be taking a more relaxed approach to noise in the auditorium and will provide a designated chill-out area outside the auditorium for people to use if being in the auditorium becomes overwhelming for them.”   Everyone booking for the Relaxed Performance will be sent a visual story in advance to help them familiarise themselves with the plot, characters and the setting before they arrive at the theatre. The Relaxed Performance will also include Sign Language Interpretation. To make the performance as accessible as possible the theatre is offering tickets for this performance for a special reduced rate of £13. These can be booked through the Box Office on 01274 432000 or via the Group Sales Team on 01274 437788, who can advise the best way to accommodate larger groups.   Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres continues: “We are excited to be able to offer this specially tailored performance as a welcome addition for those audience members who have autism or other disabilities and who find it hard to attend live theatre. The inclusive welcome and relaxed atmosphere will give everyone the chance to come and experience pantomime.”   Jack and the Beanstalk is staged by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s largest pantomime producer, and the company behind the Alhambra Theatre’s recent record-breaking pantomimes. The show will feature more comedy than audiences can shake a bag of magic beans at, a huge beanstalk with one very mean giant at the top of it, plus a spectacular 3D sequence and some very special effects from The Twins FX.  To book call the Box Office on 01274 432000 or via the Group Sales Team on 01274 437788, who can advise the best way to accommodate larger groups. 

Dowload the Jack and the Beanstalk Visual Story Here