Relaxed Performances

A relaxed performance offers resources, support and accommodations to make live theatre more accessible. 

The conventions of a traditional theatre going experience can include the need to sit still and quietly in the dark theatre for a long time, a show full of surprising moments and not much flexibility for the audience. A relaxed performance is a less formal theatre environment that allows breaks and movement, offers preparation resources, and a creates relaxing flexible atmosphere, without changing the show itself.

Relaxed performances are for everyone.

Autistic and neurodivergent people and those with learning, communication or movement disabilities, sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or anyone who would benefit from a less formal theatre environment may find these shows especially welcoming. 

Everyone participating in the show, including the audience, actors, crew, and front-of-house team, is each responsible for making the show ‘relaxed’ and welcoming.

Everyone taking part in the performance understands that a relaxed performance is all about inclusion and acceptance. There may be more movement and noise during the show – and that it is perfectly all right.

Everyone is invited to relax and express themselves as they need to, without worrying about distracting or bothering others because everyone agrees to be themselves and to enjoy the experience together.  

• Show specific resources detailing the plot, action, and surprises in the show, as well as how long the show is and if there is an interval. These resources are available shortly before the relaxed performance on this page
• A pre-show demonstration. Taking place 40 minutes before the performance, the pre-show demonstration welcomes patrons into the theatre to check out the lights, sound, and technical elements of the show. Surprises and startling show moments will be demonstrated so patrons know what to expect during the show. They may also have a chance to meet the show’s actors.
• Early seating is available for audience members who prefer to take their seats ahead of the crowd entering the theatre, and patrons are welcome to wait in their seats after the show and exit after the crowd has left
• Theatre audience lights will be left on low so the space is not entirely dark during the show
• Audience are welcome to use fidget toys, headphones, sunnies, weighted blankets, or other comfort items in the theatre. They are also welcome to come and go and take breaks during the show
• A pre-show announcement reminding the audience that during the sensory relaxed show, patrons are welcome to be themselves. The whole audience is invited to participate in creating a welcoming, judgement free atmosphere

If you choose to attend the relaxed performance, you can see a pre-show demonstration. You will be welcomed into the theatre to check out the lights, sound, special effects and technical elements of the show. Surprises and startling show moments will be demonstrated so you know what to expect during the show. They may also have a chance to meet the show’s performers.

Going to a theatre can be an overwhelming experience. Crowding in the lobby and lines to pick up tickets, loud volume, and sudden bursts of sounds, along with dark theatre lighting can all be sensory overload triggers that prevent some from ever experiencing the magic of live theatre.

By introducing relaxed performances, we hope to provide a safe space for people to be who they are and enjoy a performance that is tailored to their needs. 

Yes. Access tickets are available for Deaf/hard of hearing, blind/low vision, and neurodivergent audiences and a companion attending audio described, NZSL interpreted, and relaxed shows.

Access tickets for the relaxed performance can be purchased online. For tickets to all other accessible performances, to reserve wheelchair seating or for assistance with your booking, email [email protected] or call 09 309 3395.

We strive to give you as much information as possible about the show, so you can decide if the experience is right for you.

During the performance, if you are overwhelmed or need a break, a breakout space will be available for relaxing. Our theatre staff are available to answer questions and offer help.

Online resources before the show and the pre-show demonstration will let you know about surprises and startling moments, and give you the information you need to decide if the show is right for you.

This relaxed show has been created in collaboration with autistic consultants, and if you have any specific access needs, questions, or concerns, please get in touch with us by emailing [email protected] or calling 09 309 3395.

Online information about what to expect at the theatre can be found at our Know Before You Go page. 

You are welcome to take our virtual tour of ASB Waterfront Theatre, walk through our spaces, and see inside the auditorium.

Step-free access, and wheelchair spaces, are available upon request – give our box office a call on 0800 282 849 and we can assist with reserving these spots. You will sit in the seat that matches your ticket. You can come and go from the auditorium as you please if you’re sitting in the Stalls or Circle. 

There will be a breakout space available on both the Stalls and Circle level of the theatre. 

There is a large artwork called the "Light Matrix" which needs to be passed if you are sitting on the left-hand side of the theatre. The Light Matrix is made up of bright LEDs lights that change colour. You can avoid walking past this artwork by booking seats on the right-hand side of the theatre. 

Yes – babies are welcome. Those under the age of 18 months are welcome to sit on your knee – please contact us at [email protected] once you’ve booked your ticket to let us know you’ll be bringing a child with you. Buggies will not be permitted inside the auditorium. Our front-of-house staff will help with making sure your buggy is kept secure during the performance. 

We can’t provide ear defenders, sunglasses, or other comfort items, and we invite you to bring your own. We recommend you bring any comfort items or fidget toys you need to feel comfortable. 

• You can relax in the foyer or breakout space before the show. Theatre staff and an announcement will let you know when the theatre doors are open for early seating, and again when general seating is open.
• If you are attending the pre-show demonstration, theatre staff will bring you from the foyer into the theatre when it begins 40 minutes ahead of the show.
• You will need to sit in the seat that matches your ticket. If you don’t like your seat, speak to the theatre staff and they will try to help you.
• You can come and go from the theatre any time during the performance, and the theatre doors will remain open. When you return to the theatre, you need to sit in your assigned seat rather than choosing a new one.
• You can use the foyer or breakout space to relax and take a break during the show
• Please keep phones and devices turned off and put away during the performance. If you need your phone or device for access reasons, please keep the volume off to respect other audience members.
• Photos and videos of the show are not permitted.
• Food and drinks may be purchased from the bar. Drinks and cold food may be brought into the theatre, but hot food is not allowed inside the theatre. If you need to bring your own food or drinks from home into the theatre, please speak to a theatre staff member.
• Audience members are not permitted on the stage before, after, or during the show- it’s just for the performers.
• Fidget toys, sunnies, headphones, weighted blankets, and other comfort items are welcome inside the theatre.
• The relaxed performance is a no judgement zone, and everyone is asked to be kind and respectful of each other and allow everyone to enjoy the show in their own way.