THE cast of the Alhambra pantomime, headed by Billy Pearce, Steps star Faye Tozer and children’s favourite Paul Chuckle, are putting on a special relaxed performance for people with autism and other specific needs.

The performance, of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, will be modified to suit sensory and access needs, and help reduce anxiety levels.

House lighting will be kept on, allowing people to move around the auditorium, while strobes and flashing lights will be removed; volume levels will be reduced so there are no loud bangs; interaction between the stage and the audience will be revised; and some language may be modified. Talking and noise is encouraged in the auditorium, and there will be ‘chill out’ spaces for audience members to take time away from the show if they wish.

Bradford Theatres general manager Adam Renton said panto producers Qdos Entertainment and the Alhambra are “committed to creating an environment that welcomes audiences with specific needs to experience live theatre and the magic of pantomime with their friends, families and school groups”.

The relaxed performance - on Tuesday, January 14 at 6pm - will feature the sparkle, special effects and lavish production values of a Qdos panto, with modified elements. Tickets for the performance are priced at a reduced rate of £13.50.

Mr Renton said: “I’m really pleased we are hosting another relaxed performance during the pantomime’s residency with us, we’re looking forward to welcoming the widest audience possible to enjoy this festive treat. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for families with very small children to experience pantomime for the first time in an environment where noise and movement doesn’t matter - it’s all part of the fun and we encourage it.

“After listening to feedback from our customers, families and support organisations in the region, we will once again be providing a designated chill-out area outside the auditorium for people to use if being in the auditorium becomes overwhelming for them. The relaxed performance will also include Sign Language Interpretation - everyone booking for this specially tailored performance will be sent a visual story in advance to help familiarise them with the plot, characters and setting before they arrive at the theatre.

“I hope that our inclusive welcome and relaxed atmosphere will give everyone the chance to come and experience pantomime in Bradford this year.”

The panto opened earlier this month to packed audiences and runs until Sunday, January 26. Much-loved funnyman Billy Pearce, the king of Yorkshire pantomime, is back for his 21st Alhambra panto starring as Muddles, best friend to Snow White.

Joining Billy is singer, actress and Strictly Come Dancing finalist Faye Tozer as the Wicked Queen and Paul Chuckle, one half of the Chuckle Brothers, playing her (not-so) wicked Henchman. Sarah Goggin, playing Snow White, returns to Bradford after her appearance in last year’s panto, Aladdin, and Yorkshire-born Matthew Croke makes his Alhambra debut performance as Prince William of Wakefield.

* Tickets for the Relaxed Performance can be booked at (01274) 432000 or via the Group Sales Team, which can advise on the best way to accommodate larger groups, at (01274) 437788.