RSC continues its commitment to semi-integrated BSL performances

The Royal Shakespeare Company's (RSC) family Christmas show, Wendy & Peter Pan, will be the next semi-integrated British Sign Language performance staged on 20 January.

The production, a magical adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s classic novel by Ella Hickson, will see the interpreter working alongside the actors on stage, in costume as part of the show. Wendy & Peter Pan will also be the Company’s second British Sign Language theatre tour which gives theatre-goers the chance to explore a range of wigs and costumes from the play. The one-hour tour will be led by British Sign Language interpreter Rachel Tipping before the show and visitors can also take part in a special free interpreted post-show talk on the play. The production, which is directed by Jonathan Munby, returns to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre following its acclaimed success in 2013.

Elizabeth Wainwright, the RSC’s Head of Theatre and Operations, said, “The RSC makes theatre for everyone and it’s important to us that we share our work with as many people as possible. We are delighted to continue our semi-integrated British Sign Language performances, as well as offering our second British Sign Language theatre tour. People can complete their visit with a free special interpreted post show talk and find out more about the creative process behind the play.”

The RSC will also host its sixth relaxed performance on 28 January at 1.15pm with Wendy & Peter Pan. The RSC was amongst the first to adopt relaxed performances in January 2013 and previous shows include The Mouse and His Child, The Christmas Truce and Matilda The Musical. Children and young people with autism, learning disabilities and sensory and communication disorders, or anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment is welcome.

Relaxed Performances are a fantastic way for families to experience live theatre together in an environment where the performance is adjusted to reduce anxiety or stress. For example, changes are made to sound and lighting to soften their impact. There is a relaxed attitude to noise and moving around the auditorium during the performance, and a designated ‘chill-out’ area for people to use if being in the auditorium becomes overwhelming. Theatre-goers also receive a visual story to help prepare them for the performance they are seeing.

Wendy & Peter Pan
By Ella Hickson
Adapted from the novel by JM Barrie
Directed by Jonathan Munby
Royal Shakespeare Theatre: 17 November 2015 – 31 January 2016
To book tickets call 01789 403493 or online at www.rsc.org.uk  or visit www.rsc.org.uk/wendy-and-peter-pan/access-performances