Disney Theatrical Group has announced a relaxed performance of Beauty and the Beast the Musical in Melbourne, set to take place on Saturday, 22 March 2025, at 1:30 pm. Created in partnership with Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) and Amaze, this performance is designed to provide an inclusive and supportive experience, welcoming audience members who may benefit from sensory and environmental adjustments.
Relaxed performances create a space where attendees are free to move around, make sounds, fidget, or use noise-cancelling headphones. Specific adaptations for the Melbourne performance were guided by feedback from Aspect’s Autistic staff, ensuring the show considers the diverse needs of its audience. These modifications include:
- A visual story to help audience members understand the show step by step.
- Adjustments to the ticket-buying process and website to ensure accessibility and inclusivity.
- Increased staff and volunteers on hand to assist.
- Turning off theatre announcements during the performance.
- Providing quiet rooms and additional spaces for breaks.
- Reducing production noise, keeping house lights dimmed, and introducing visual pre-warnings for potentially overwhelming moments.
Additionally, the show, a pre-performance introduction will prepare attendees for key elements of the production, such as the use of live flames on Lumiere’s candle hands, ensuring surprises are communicated in advance.
Tickets for the relaxed performance are priced at $60, $85, and $125, with no additional booking fees. It should be said that these tickets should be booked by those who would benefit from attending a relaxed performance – as ultimately there are only a limited number of seats available in the theatre. The Melbourne season will also feature Audio Described and Auslan Interpreted performances in March. More details about accessibility initiatives can be found on the musical’s official website, with tickets to the performance now on-sale.
