The Talisman Theatre in Kenilworth is "proud to announce" its first-ever relaxed performance for the 2024 pantomime 'Jack and the Beanstalk', written by Stephen Duckham.

This special performance aims to create an inclusive and comfortable theatre experience for neurodiverse families, making the magic of panto accessible to everyone.

In preparation for this exciting step, members of the panto cast and the creative team visited a local Autism One-on-One group on Wednesday, October 9 at the Kenilworth Sports and Social Club.

The visit was filled with fun for all with a special appearance from Buttercup the Cow (Rosie Gowers) and the loveable 'Silly Billy' Tommy Trot (Sean Noone).

The show's director Gill Halford and publicity manager Sharon Sully also attended to meet with families, share information about the adjustments being made for the relaxed performance, and gain valuable insights on how to welcome neurodiverse audience members to the theatre.

Vicki Shanks, who founded the Autism One-on-One group in Kenilworth, welcomed the team.

Vicki set up the group eleven years ago to help families, including her own, find support and connect in a safe and understanding environment.

Reflecting on the Talisman's initiative, she said: "It's wonderful to see local venues like the Talisman Theatre making real efforts to create a more inclusive experience.

"A relaxed performance can make such a difference for families like ours, and we're excited that the insights we shared with the Talisman team will help make it even more accessible."

The 2024 Talisman Theatre pantomime 'Jack and the Beanstalk' was written by Stephen Duckham (image via Talisman Theatre)

Vicki added: "The Autism One-on-One group is very much a relaxed environment and families are very welcome to just drop in on the night. We regularly have experts from the NHS who come every month to offer their advice and support as well, so families are very welcome to join us."

The Autism One-on-One group meets monthly at the Kenilworth Sports and Social Club, Upper Rosemary Hill, Kenilworth, CV8 2PA and is open to all families who want to connect with and support each other in an open and inclusive way.

The next meet-up will take place on Wednesday 13th November from 6:30pm to 8pm and anyone interested can find out more information on the group's Facebook page called 'Autism & ADHD One on One'.

Panto director Gill Halford, who has been part of many successful productions at the Talisman, is thrilled to bring 'Jack and the Beanstalk' to life in this new, inclusive format.

She shared: "Panto is all about fun, laughter, and bringing people together.

"We're working hard to ensure that our relaxed performance is a joyful experience for everyone, and visiting this group was a wonderful opportunity to hear first-hand from parents and young people to help us better understand ways we can tailor the show to meet their needs."

The relaxed performance will feature adjustments such as softer lighting, no pyrotechnics, a calm space for those who may need a break during the show, as well as an environment where audience movement and noise are welcomed.

In addition, there will be a pre-show familiarisation tour of the theatre (or families can view a video tour before they visit), and a visual story pack will also be made available ahead of the show, so families can familiarise themselves with the story and the characters in advance.

Sharon Sully, publicity manager at the Talisman Theatre, has been a key advocate for introducing the relaxed performance.

She said: "I'm so proud to be part of this initiative. The Talisman has always been about creating a welcoming space for everyone, and it's fantastic to see us take this step to make sure that theatre is accessible for all, especially families who might otherwise find it challenging. We're also very grateful to have received support from the Kenilworth Lions for our relaxed performance this year."

The relaxed performance of 'Jack and the Beanstalk' will take place during the show's run on 1st January 2025 at 2:30pm. For more information about the relaxed performance, or to view the theatre video tour, please visit the Talisman Theatre website.

Tickets are now available via the website or by contacting the Box Office direct on 01926 856548.

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