His first visit to the theatre is a memory that stands out to acting student George.
It was a performance of Peter Pan and, as a youngster with autism, he remembers, for him, it opened up a world of new opportunities.
Now the 16-year-old from Wynyard and classmate Will hope to do the same for others by incorporating a relaxed performance, for invited schools and community groups, to their run of Stockton Riverside College’s festive production at ARC.
The show is Peter Pan the Musical, which is a happy coincidence. George said: “The show means so much to me, it was the first show I went to and part of the reason I’m doing what I’m doing now.”
For that one show it will mean the cast of acting for stage and screen students will apply a whole new set of skills as they adapt to the specific needs of their audience.
George and Will have looked back on their own experiences, to consider innovative ways to make the performance more inclusive.
“The thing with autism is there is a scale,” said George. He explained, like anyone, it can take years to work out your strengths and weaknesses and ultimately everyone is different.
That first visit to the theatre helped him discover his own love for acting and the stage, but he recognises this isn’t the case for everyone.
“Because actors are on the stage and everything else is quiet, I can listen, but if I went to a concert, with all the noise, I know I couldn’t cope with that,” he said.
For Will, his older brother who has Down’s Syndrome is part of his inspiration for wanting to offer a more relaxed performance, and growing up seeing his experiences.
“He loves going to the theatre so much,” said the 18-year-old from Darlington. “But if he does go, he might have to walk out during the first number because it’s just too much.”
It is taking all of this into account that the pair want to ensure their relaxed performance makes theatre more accessible. Adjustments to the lighting, the volume of the music, the stage makeup and allowing interaction and chatter, can all make a difference.
George said: “A relaxed performance is not just for those with autism or additional needs, it is also for their families who wouldn’t normally get to have this experience with their children, and for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed theatre environment.”
Stockton Riverside College’s course leader, Kelly Fairhurst, said: “I am proud of George and Will for coming up with the idea and running with it. They have thought about ways to make it a truly inclusive performance and got in touch with local schools and community groups.
“The rest of the class have also embraced the idea. It is quite empowering how they have organised this wonderful opportunity to open up theatre to those who may not otherwise have got the chance.”
Stockton Riverside College’s acting for stage and screen students are bringing their festive production of Peter Pan the Musical to ARC Stockton, from Wednesday December 13 to Friday 15, incorporating the relaxed performance for schools on Wednesday morning. To find out more visit: Peter Pan The Musical - ARC | Stockton Arts Centre (arconline.co.uk)
