Disney’s hit musical The Lion King will present its third autism-friendly performance this August, opening its doors once again to individuals affected by the condition.
The specially adapted performance, which is staged in collaboration with the National Autistic Society, will take place at the long-running musical’s West End home, the Lyceum Theatre, on 30 August at 13:30.
The summer matinee, which follows autism-friendly performances in 2013 and 2014, will see strobe lighting and jarring sounds reduced, the cast and theatre trained to understand the needs of audiences with autism spectrum disorders and designated quiet areas, staffed by experts, put in place for individuals wanting to leave the auditorium.
While much is done on the day to ensure individuals feel as comfortable as possible in the theatre, the musical has also set up an autism-friendly website to make the booking process as easy as possible.
The website includes access to a downloadable ‘social story’ to help those with autism prepare for their visit. It is designed to reducing anxiety by providing a step-by-step guide that takes individuals from their arrival at the theatre foyer to the final curtain call.
The show’s forthcoming autism-friendly performance adds to an array of productions, including The Railway Children, The Twits and Matilda The Musical, staging relaxed performances in the coming year. Relaxed performances are specially designed performances that have been adapted for people with autism spectrum conditions, learning disabilities and other sensory and communication disorders.
Tickets for The Lion King’s autism-friendly performance can be booked at www.lionkingautismfriendly.co.uk