Talisman Panto to Visit Local Autism Group

The Talisman Theatre in Kenilworth is proud to announce its first-ever relaxed performance for the 2024 pantomime ‘Jack and the Beanstalk,’ written by Stephen Duckham. This special performance aims to create an inclusive and comfortable theatre experience for neurodiverse families, making the magic of panto accessible to everyone.

In preparation for this exciting step, Dame Tillamina Trot from the panto cast, along with members from the creative team, will be visiting a local Autism One-on-One group to gather insights on Wednesday, 9 October, from 7pm at the Kenilworth Sports and Social Club.

This visit will allow Dame Trot, played by a Talisman favourite Alistair Jolliffe, along with the show’s director Gill Halford and Sean Noone (playing the lovable ‘Silly Billy’ Tommy Trot), to meet with families, share information about the adjustments being made for the relaxed performance, and gain valuable insights on how to welcome neurodiverse audience members to the theatre.

Vicki Shanks, who founded the Autism One-on-One group in Kenilworth, will welcome the team. Vicki, set up the group eleven years ago to help families, including her own, find support and connect in a safe and understanding environment. Reflecting on the Talisman’s initiative, she said, "It’s wonderful to see local venues like the Talisman Theatre making the effort to create a more inclusive experience. A relaxed performance can make such a difference for families like ours, and we’re excited to contribute our insights to help make it even more accessible."

Panto Director Gill Halford, who has been part of many successful productions at the Talisman, is thrilled to bring ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ to life in this new, inclusive format. She shared, "Panto is all about fun, laughter, and bringing people together. We’re working hard to ensure that our relaxed performance is a joyful experience for everyone, and visiting this group is a wonderful opportunity to learn how we can tailor the show to meet their needs."

The relaxed performance will feature adjustments such as softer lighting, no pyrotechnics, a calm space for those who may need a break during the show, as well as an environment where audience movement and noise are welcomed.

Sharon Sully, Publicity Manager at the Talisman Theatre, has been a key advocate for introducing the relaxed performance. She said, "I’m so proud to be part of this initiative. The Talisman has always been about creating a welcoming space for everyone, and it’s fantastic to see us take this step to make sure that theatre is accessible for all, especially families who might otherwise find it challenging. We’re also very grateful to have received support from the Kenilworth Lions for our relaxed performance this year."

Families and supporters are encouraged to join the cast at the Autism One-on-One group visit on Wednesday 9 October, where they can learn more about the relaxed performance and share their experiences. The group meets at 6:30 pm to 8 pm, Kenilworth Sports and Social Club, Upper Rosemary Hill, Kenilworth CV8 2PA. The panto team will be joining the group from 7 pm. Anyone interested in finding out more will be very welcome on Wednesday evening.

The relaxed performance of ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ will take place during the show’s run on 1 January 2025 at 2:30pm. For more information about the relaxed performance, please visit the Talisman Theatre website at: https://talismantheatre.co.uk/whats-on/jack-and-the-beanstalk-relaxed-performance

Tickets for the relaxed performance and the pantomime are now available via the website www.talismantheatre.co.uk or by contacting the Box Office direct on 01926 856548.