Relaxed Performances

For many people living with neurodevelopmental disorders, sensory sensitivities, or various accommodation needs, the theatre can be an overwhelming experience. Tina J Richardson, a woman with autism, describes it well when she writes: “Some things just feel so intense. I’m not overreacting. My sensory processing is unique to me.” These stimuli can even be painful and make it difficult for members of our community to attend traditional screenings of performances full of loud noises and strobe lights, and where they are not allowed to move around or make noise.

This can make them and their families uncomfortable in public spaces, especially in cultural performances, where any kind of disruption is often met with judging stares. However, the slight changes introduced in Relaxed Performances, can transform the theatre into a place as welcoming and comfortable as their own home. It is our mission at TNP to provide every member of our community access to live theatre.

During these performances, the audience lights remain on, but dimmed, during the performance, sound is turned lower, movement during the performance is not restricted, and the performance is capped at 50% capacity. There are also designated chill zones in the lobby for audience members who may need to leave the theatre and find a quieter environment. In addition, audience members receive a guide to the show that tells them when there might be a sensory trigger so they can prepare themselves in advance. This can make all the difference in opening the doors of the theater to people with special needs.

To attend a Relaxed Performance you must purchase a ticket – available to you through our website or box office. Tickets are only $10 per person when purchased ahead of time. Tickets purchased upon arrival to the theatre on the day of the show will cost $15 per person.

Relaxed Performances take place in our Kizzie Theatre, however, seating is general admission. You are able to choose whichever seat you would like upon arrival, on a first come first serve basis. Please note that our balcony seating will be closed for all Relaxed Performances. We have wheelchair seating available if necessary. Please do not hesitate to contact our Box Office to inform them of any additional accommodations you or your party may require.

The Naples Players has many accessible resources available to our audience members. Sensory Bags complete with communication cards, noise dampening headphones, fidget tools, and a weighted lap pad, can be checked out from the Box Office, free of charge. We have Arts Access Show Guides as an additional support tool that visually guides patrons through the entire theatre-viewing experience and breaks down the story of the show and its elements through pictures and brief narrative. Assisted Listening Devices are available at the Box Office, free of charge. If you prefer to use your own technological device or Bluetooth compatible hearing aids we can assist you with connection to our ListenEverywhere app. We also have large print and braille playbills/scripts available upon request, with advanced notice.