Beauty and the Beast The Musical
Autism Spectrum Australia
Disney Theatrical Group is proud to be partnering with Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) and Autism Queensland to offer a relaxed performance of Beauty and the Beast on Saturday the 11th of May at 1:30 pm. This unique and inclusive performance will be tailored, from start to finish, to ensure audience members who may need specific support can attend, engage and feel welcomed.
A relaxed performance means that audience members will be encouraged to be completely themselves during the performance; to make sounds, move around, fidget or use noise cancelling headphones.
Aspect’s Autistic staff assessed the show and recommended modifications for the relaxed performance that consider the diversity of audience preferences, including sensory sensitivities. Adjustments include a visual story that explains the show step by step, inclusive and welcoming language used on the official website and during the ticket buying process, increased staff and volunteers to assist audience members, turning off all announcements throughout the theatre, and providing a dedicated quiet room and multiple quiet spaces for use by anyone who needs a break from the performance. Amendments to the production for the cast and crew include noise reduction, keeping the house lights dim during the performance, and employing visual cues to act as a ‘pre-warning’ mechanism prior to potentially overwhelming scenes or moments. 
A short pre-show welcome will be hosted by Emma Watkins (The Wiggles, Emma Memma) and has been designed to introduce the audience to certain characters and stage effects that may be unpredictable or sensorially significant in advance. For example, the character of Lumiere’s hands are candles that light up with real fire, which will be explained in an approachable and respectful way to get the audience ready for the performance ahead.
The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Kylie Watson-Wheeler, said: “The Walt Disney Company is proud to have worked alongside our incredible partners in Aspect, QPAC and Autism Queensland to offer a relaxed performance of Beauty and the Beast. This tale as old as time is powerful and inspiring and we’re excited it can be offered in accessible and inclusive ways for everyone to enjoy.”
Aspect’s Autistic Consultant Emma Gallagher added; “As an Autistic consultant, it was my pleasure to attend a regular session of Beauty and the Beast in order to provide feedback on the show and the experience along with another Autistic colleague. We conducted this assessment in order to make recommendations on modifications that will allow Autistic people and others with a disability to be able to access and enjoy the show. Representatives from Disney and QPAC have welcomed all feedback and worked hard to ensure that feedback from Autistic people is highly valued and have implemented many changes that will make the relaxed session a fun experience for those who may not be able to attend a regular session due to sensory overload. I am looking forward to attending the relaxed session knowing I have a quiet space when I need it.”
QPAC Chief Executive John Kotzas acknowledged the importance of making the arts accessible to everyone. “One of our key drivers at QPAC is ensuring that everyone can experience the incredible power of live performance. We couldn’t be happier to be a part of this initiative that removes barriers for those who otherwise might not be able to enjoy this remarkable production. Disney is pulling out all stops to ensure that this performance is even more special than ever and we’re proud to stand alongside them to deliver a wonderfully inclusive experience for all.”
Pam Macrossan, CEO of Autism Queensland, expressed her gratitude towards Disney Theatrical Group and QPAC for their commitment to creating inclusive spaces for all people. “This collaboration exemplifies the importance of understanding and accommodating diverse needs within our community. Autism Queensland is proud to be part of this endeavour and we look forward to collaborating on future initiatives working towards the inclusion of all people, in all places and all spaces.”
Tickets to the relaxed performance will be available across three price points, $60, $85 and $125 with no additional ticketing fees.
In May, Beauty and the Beast will also host Audio Described and Auslan Interpreted performances. More information about these performances can be found at beautyandthebeastmusical.com.au/accessibility-inclusion/
Tickets are on sale now exclusively via QPAC.
Melbourne audiences can also look forward to a Relaxed Performance during the Beauty and the Beast season at Her Majesty’s Theatre. A date is still to be announced, but to be the first to find out, sign up at beautyandthebeastmusical.com.au.
