Kenilworth's Talisman Theatre is "thrilled" to continue its commitment to accessibility and inclusion by offering a Relaxed Performance for the 2025 pantomime, Robinson Crusoe, written by Stephen Duckham.

Following the success of last year's introduction of a relaxed performance, this special showing is designed to create a welcoming environment for families and individuals with sensory needs and other visible and hidden disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic of pantomime.

In anticipation of this milestone, students from Baginton Fields Academy were invited back for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the theatre.

The visit included a technical demonstration in the lighting control room led by Chairman Nigel Elliott, a look at the creation of props by Corrina Jacob, and insight from members of the set build team, who shared details of the construction and finishing of the panto set.

Baginton Fields Academy is a specialist secondary school catering to students with a broad range of special educational needs.

As part of their involvement, the students have been preparing special sensory bags to enhance the Relaxed Performance experience. These include carefully chosen items to support individuals with sensory needs during the show.

The visit provided an opportunity for the Talisman team to share details of the adjustments being made for the Relaxed Performance and to gather feedback from the students about creating a welcoming environment for neurodiverse audience members.

Sean Noone, Assistant Head at Baginton Fields Academy, said: "It's wonderful to see local venues like the Talisman Theatre making genuine efforts to create inclusive experiences.

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"A relaxed performance can make such a difference for students like ours. The students have been very enthusiastic about preparing the sensory bags, drawing on their own experiences to come up with thoughtful and creative ideas that will help others enjoy the show."

Pantomime Director Gill Halford added: "Pantomime is all about fun, laughter, and bringing people together.

"We're thrilled to offer a Relaxed Performance again this year and are deeply grateful to the Kenilworth Lions for their continued sponsorship, which has made the creation of sensory bags possible.

"We can't wait to welcome families to this special show again this year."

The Relaxed Performance of Robinson Crusoe will take place on 3 January 2026 at 1pm and will feature:

● Softer lighting and no pyrotechnics

● An environment where audience movement and noise is embraced

● Open auditorium doors

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● A quiet space in the foyer with a live video relay

● A pre-show introduction to characters

● Visual Story Pack and video tour available ahead of the visit

● Reduced capacity to allow extra space

Tickets for all performances, including the Relaxed Performance, are available online here or by contacting the Box Office on 01926 856548.