Leeds-based Same Difference Arts is setting out on a 47-date tour around Yorkshire with a unique version of Cinderella.
Bringing a contemporary twist to the pantomime, the all-inclusive show features an audio-captioned script, large-print programmes, touch-tour familiarisation and a quiet space and relaxation zone.
Same Difference artistic director and Cinderella producer, Natasha Glew, developed the idea when she met access specialist, Vicky Ackroyd of Totally Inclusive People, which provides interactive disability awareness and equality training. Natasha explains: “We were commissioned to make the pantomime through Rural Arts and saw this as an opportunity to make it an inclusive panto, working with Vicky to build in access from the very beginning. We talked about the traditions of panto, how well known and loved it is and we wanted to make it open and accessible to everyone.”
Same Difference’s shows are free, or pay what you can afford, allowing all families the opportunity to enjoy some festive fun. Many of the venues are offering touch-tours and familiarisation experiences where anyone can come along and have a sensory experience before the show, meet the characters, feel the costumes and experience the smells and sounds, making the whole experience more accessible for audience members with learning disabilities, autism or limited vision.
Cinderella opens to the public at the Red Roof Centre CIC, Wakefield Road, Wakefield on Monday December 5 at 7pm. For full tour details and information about venue access see here.