Relaxed Performances

As a part of ATC's commitment to make theatre accessible to all, we offer relaxed performances to welcome neurodivergent and autistic audience members and those with sensory needs. We invite you to come as you are to enjoy the show in your own way, using any of the resources we have available. By introducing relaxed performances, we hope to provide a safe space for people to be who they are and enjoy a performance that is tailored to their needs. 

The relaxed performances are developed with guidance from autistic professionals and community members, and we welcome your feedback as we build this programme. Everyone is invited to relax and express themselves as they need to, without worrying about being distracting and without the need to justify themselves. You are free to bring any comfort items or fidget toys and to move in and out of the theatre as much as necessary. All other aspects including the acting, lights, and sound of the relaxed show remain unchanged from our standard performances. 

To book a ticket to a performance, click the “Book Now” button and find the performance date with the “R” symbol. Click that date and follow the booking prompts.

Relaxed Performances Frequently Asked Questions

What is a relaxed performance?

• A relaxed performance offers resources, support and accommodations to make live theatre more accessible.

• The conventions of a traditional theatre going experience can include the need to sit still and quietly in the dark theatre for a long time, watching a show full of surprising moments and not much flexibility for the audience. A relaxed performance is a less formal theatre environment that allows breaks and movement, offers preparation resources, and creates a relaxing flexible atmosphere, without changing the show itself.

How is it different?

• Everyone is invited to relax and express themselves as they need to, without worrying about being distracting and without the need to justify themselves. You are free to bring any comfort items or fidget toys and to move in and out of the theatre as much as necessary.

• The story, characters, lights and sound of the relaxed show remain unchanged from our standard performances.

What Resources are available?

• The Pre-show Demonstration is optional for anyone choosing to attend the Relaxed Show. You will be welcomed into the theatre to see the technical elements of the show, including the lights, sound, and special effects. Surprises and startling moments will be demonstrated so you know what to expect during the show.

• The Show Information includes a short summary and highlights any triggering or surprising moments in the show. It also describes the lighting, sound, special effects, and audience interaction. 

• The Show Summary is a detailed summary of the show with photos from the performance.

Can I book an access ticket?

• Yes. Access tickets are available for Deaf/hard of hearing, blind/low vision, and neurodivergent audiences and a companion attending audio described, NZSL interpreted, and relaxed shows.

• Access tickets for the relaxed performance can be purchased online. For tickets to all other accessible performances, to reserve wheelchair seating or for assistance with your booking, email [email protected] or call 09 309 3395.

Where should I sit?

• Feel free to book a seat anywhere that is comfortable for you. If you want easy access to an exit, you could book on an aisle or at the front of a section. If you would like to be further away from live sound during a show, such as a live band, you may like to choose a seat further from the stage. 

• There are breakout spaces on both the Stalls and Circle level of the theatre. 

• There is a large artwork called the "Light Matrix" which needs to be passed if you are sitting on the left-hand side of the theatre. The Light Matrix is made up of bright LEDs lights that change colour. You can avoid walking past this artwork by booking seats on the right-hand side of the theatre.