The Royal Shakespeare Company’s record-breaking production of Matilda The Musical will stage its second relaxed performance at London’s Cambridge Theatre in June.
The specially adapted performance of the Olivier Award-winning West End hit will take place on 14 June at 15:00, almost exactly a year after the show’s first ever relaxed performance.
Designed to make theatre more accessible to individuals with autism spectrum conditions, learning disabilities and other sensory and communication disorders, relaxed performances are modified in a number of ways to create a supportive atmosphere for the audience. These include adjusting light and sound level, providing designated ‘chill-out’ areas and demonstrating an embracing attitude towards audience noise and movement.
Featuring music and lyrics by Tim Minchin and a book by Dennis Kelly, Matilda The Musical brings Roald Dahl’s classic story to life on stage, charting the tale of a young girl with loathsome parents and an intimidating headmistress who rises above her tormentors and discovers a very special talent.
Following their successful collaboration on last year’s project, the musical’s second relaxed performance will see the RSC unite once again with the National Autistic Society and Mousetrap Theatre Projects to offer people with autism and learning difficulties full access to the theatre.
Speaking about 2014’s sold-out relaxed performance, the RSC’s Executive Director Catherine Mallyon said: “The last relaxed performance of Matilda The Musical was incredibly successful and received such positive feedback that we are now planning to present more of these performances across as many of our productions as possible. These specially tailored performances are 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 give everyone the chance to come and experience our work, and this is very important to us.”
The National Autistic Society’s Chief Executive Mark Lever commented on the Stratford-upon-Avon-based company’s dedication to opening theatre up to these audiences: “We are delighted that the RSC has shown such commitment to improving access for people with autism to fantastic shows such as Matilda The Musical. Trips to the theatre can pose enormous challenges to those living with the condition, but productions like these which are tailored, particularly to their sensory needs, enable whole families to experience the thrill of live theatre together.”
Tickets for the upcoming relaxed performance, which are available at the reduced rate of £10 and £25, can be booked through the RSC hotline on 0844 800 1110 or in person at the Cambridge Theatre’s box office.