Stockton Riverside College students create 'relaxed' pantomime

Students George Smedley and Will Hart wanted to open up the magic of theatre to a wider audience

A 'relaxed' panto will open up the magic of theatre for audiences who may struggle with traditionally raucous performances, students hope.

An autistic teenager and a student who has a brother with Down's Syndrome are the driving forces behind the fresh approach at Stockton Riverside College.

One performance of the college's annual pantomime will be adapted this year to accommodate a more diverse audience.

Lights will be dimmed, volume lowered and interaction allowed.

The relaxed performance of Peter Pan will be staged on Wednesday in front of an invited audience from schools and community groups.

Acting student George Smedley, 16, and classmate Will Hart,18, used their own experiences to consider ways of making the show more inclusive.

'For anyone'

George's first trip to the theatre as a child inspired a lifelong love of the stage, and he wants to ensure others are supported to have similar experiences.

He wants to highlight the importance of considering the ways in which people can be impacted by conditions like autism, or other disabilities.

"Because actors are on the stage and everything else is quiet, I can listen. But if I went to a concert, with all the noise, I know I couldn't cope with that," he explained.

"A relaxed performance isn't just for those with autism or additional needs. It is also for their families who wouldn't normally get to have this experience with their children, and for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed theatre environment."

Will Hart said his older brother, who has Down's Syndrome, inspired his desire to create a more relaxed performance.

"He loves going to the theatre so much," he said. "But if he does go, he might have to walk out during the first number because it's just too much."

'Empowering'

The college's Acting for Stage and Screen students will stage Peter Pan between Wednesday and Friday.

Course leader Kelly Fairhurst said the rest of the class embraced George and Will's idea of a relaxed performance.

"It is quite empowering how they have organised this wonderful opportunity to open up theatre to those who may not otherwise have got the chance," she said.