First autism-friendly show to hit the West End
The Lion King musical teams up with autism charities to create a quieter performance
An “autism-friendly” performance of The Lion King musical – the first of its kind in the West End – will be staged in London this weekend.
Theatre managers, The Lion King producers and autism charities have worked for months on the performance for children and adults who would normally struggle to cope with the spectacle and special effects of a West End performance.
Following two successful events on Broadway, organisers say the demand has been high for the performance on April 14 and it's hoped more musicals will follow suit.
More than 500,000 people in the UK are affected by autism and those on the "spectrum" struggle with communication, changes to routine and their environment, such as bright lights and loud noises.
Cast and staff have been trained to help understand the needs of autistic children and adults, while jarring sounds and strobe lighting in the show has been reduced and the foyer will have quiet areas staffed by autism experts if visitors need to leave the auditorium.
More like this
According to The Evening Standard, producer and president of Disney Theatrical Productions Thomas Schumacher says: “Our experiences of presenting autism-friendly performances on Broadway have been extremely moving; for the audiences, casts and companies.”
Scheduled shows in associated with The National Autistic Society will take place in London on Sunday 14th April at 1.30pm and Edinburgh on Sunday 24 November at 1.30pm.
For more information visit The Lion King Autism-Friendly Performance.
Here at MFM we think this sounds like an amazing day out for people with autism and their families. Do you think their should be more autism-friendly events? Let us know below…
Read more...
Authors
How NatPat's wellness patches may help your family
NatPat's range of wellness patches and stickers aim to tackle everything from allergies to lack of focus. We take a closer look at the range.