UK Pantomime Association announces inaugural panel event on Relaxed & Accessible performances

The UK Pantomime Association announces inaugural Pantomime Panel Event on ‘Relaxed and Accessible Pantomime Performance’ 

The UK Pantomime Association (UKPA) is thrilled to announce its inaugural Pantomime Panel Event addressing Relaxed and Accessible Pantomime Performance, which will take place at The North Wall Theatre, Oxford on Thursday 26 September 2024 from 11:00am to 1:00pm.

This special event will feature an engaging and informative discussion on how to make relaxed and accessible pantomime performances as inclusive as possible, in line with the UKPA’s mission to explore, share and celebrate pantomime by investigating the genre’s rich past, engaging with contemporary practice and inspiring the future.

Expert speakers include: 

  • Chris Jarvis: CBeebies presenter, Pantomime Director, Performer and Writer.
  • Annie Bannister: Freelance Access Consultant.
  • Dr. Chris Abbott: Emeritus Reader in Assistive Technologies at King’s College London, with experience in accessibility of theatrical performance for children and young people with learning difficulties, particularly through the use of graphic symbols for communication and literacy.  
  • Jess Thom: Writer, Artist and Activist. Co-founder of Tourette’s Hero, renowned for her work in advocating for inclusivity in the arts.

The panel discussion will cover key strategies, challenges and innovations in making pantomime performances more accessible for a diverse audience with a particular focus on relaxed performances for audience members with disabilities and other access needs. Following the discussion, there will be an opportunity to speak further with participants in a networking session accompanied by light refreshments providing an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues and peers across the Industry.

This event is open to pantomime producers, directors, performers, theatre venue staff, educators, and anyone with an interest in making the arts more inclusive. We encourage you to share this invitation with colleagues, teams, venues, and your wider network.

Tickets are free, but spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. To reserve your place, please follow the booking link below.  If you have any specific access requirements, please do not hesitate to contact us or reach out directly to The North Wall Theatre.

For more information on the UK Pantomime Association and this event, visit www.pantomimeassociation.co.uk