NEXT week the Regal will present a very special performance of its pantomime.

The new initiative will feature as part of the pantomime season in Tenbury with a special performance aimed at people with autism.

Now in its fifth year, The Regal pantomime is an established tradition of Christmas and family fun in Tenbury and Ludlow.

For this year The Regal will stage its very first Pantomime Relaxed Performance.

Relaxed performances are open to everyone, but the environment has been specifically adapted for families with children with an Autistic Spectrum Condition, individuals with sensory and communication disorders, those with learning disabilities or dementia and anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment.

This performance of Cinderella is adapted in a variety of ways in order to reduce anxiety and ensure a safe and enjoyable live theatre experience.

There is a relaxed attitude to noise, the lights in the auditorium remain on low throughout the show, sudden loud noises are softened, and audience members are free to leave and re-enter the auditorium at any point.

“We also have additional staff on hand to assist with seating and access around the theatre,” said Regal manager Adey Ramsel.

“This is another way of The Regal reaching out to the community. The performance on January 2 is obviously open to anyone to attend but is specifically catered for those wanting a less stressful experience.”

In its vision statement the Regal says that it wants to be a venue that is accessible to all members of the community.

People who have conditions like autism can find it difficult to adapt to conventional environments for public performances such as theatre or concerts.

It is become increasingly common for the venue to put on special performances to help to meet the needs of people with autism and similar conditions.

Autism is a spectrum disorder that affects people at different levels of severity from fairly minor to more serious in which people can find it difficult or impossible to lead independent lives and therefore need the support of specialists to keep them safe.

It can be difficult for families with children suffering from autism to take them to the pantomime and other entertainment because of a fear that they may appear to be being disruptive and spoiling the performance for other members of the audience.

One of the issues is that people suffering from an autism spectrum condition may find it difficult or impossible to be still and concentrate for long periods of time.

The Regal is embarking on a long-term vision plan to improve the venue and widen the facilities that are available in order to ensure that it has a sustainable future.

For any queries about the relaxed performance or any of the other dates contact Adey on adey_ramsel@regaltenbury.co.uk.

All bookings can be made online at www.regaltenbury.co.uk or by phoning the box office 01584 811442, between 10am and 2pm Monday to Friday.