Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
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RELAXED PERFORMANCES
Relaxed performances provide a welcoming, judgment-free setting for all to experience the joy of live theatre.
Access for all.
What are relaxed performances?
Audiences are expected to follow generally accepted “rules” of etiquette during a live performance, such as not speaking or moving during the show. Although this kind of etiquette provides a more enjoyable experience for some, it can be a stressful, exclusive environment for others. Relaxed performances are designed to create a comfortable arts experience for any audience member who may benefit from a more relaxed attitude surrounding these “rules.”
Who can attend?
Although these performances are open to all patrons, they are intentionally modified to accommodate patrons with Autism, anxiety, dementia, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other sensory and vestibular sensitivities.
What should I expect?
Relaxed performance modifications include:
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- lower sound level for startling or loud sounds
- low-level house lights remain on throughout the performance
- reduction of strobe lighting or lighting focused on the audience
- relaxed attitude regarding noise and movement in the audience
- space throughout the theater for standing and movement
- freedom to leave and reenter the auditorium as often as needed
- designated quiet areas within the theater facility
Contact us
If you have questions or need more information, please email our Education department.
Pricing
General public
Tickets to our holiday show relaxed performance are generously underwritten by our sponsors and are free for families to attend, but registration is required. See below for details.
For schools
Relaxed performances for schools and organizations fall under our Fairy Godmother Program and have the same qualifying criteria.
Use the Fairy Godmother form to request tickets to these performances; relaxed show dates are indicated on the form.
Holiday show
If you have questions or need more information, contact our Education department.
Relaxed performance ticket request
Shows fill quickly and are distributed based on financial need, past relationship, and request submission date. Waiting lists are available for sold-out performances or if more dates are added.
Currently, our relaxed performances are sold out. Please contact our education department with any questions.
Holiday show dates
Relaxed performances for our 2023-2024 production of Fiona: The Musical:
Sat, Nov 18 at 2:00 pm
Sat, Nov 25 at 2:00 pm
Resources
Patrons attending relaxed performances will have access to previsit guides, social narratives, and other resources to prepare for their visit. These social narratives and previsit guides include a plot synopsis, descriptions and photos of characters from the production, diagrams and images of the theater, along with details about sensory conditions guests will encounter throughout our facility.
Fidgets, noise-dampening headphones, sensory cushions, and sunglasses are available at the box office. Patrons may request additional accommodations by calling the box office at least 48 hours ahead of the relaxed performance.
Accessibility
We’re dedicated to making our performances and outreach initiatives welcoming to and enjoyable by all.
Hunter Heartbeat
Using theatre, Hunter Heartbeat breaks through communication and social blocks for students with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Inclusive Programs
Along with relaxed performances, we offer programs designed for artists, students, and audiences of all abilities.
Photo credits | Masthead, the cast of Sleeping Beauty (Ryan Kurtz); Accessibility, Phil Fiorini & Nathan Robert Pecchia in Fly By Night (Ryan Kurtz).
1127 Vine Street