A trip to the panto can be a magical experience and a highlight of the festive holidays. But for some people, including those venturing to the theatre for the first time, the thought can be as equally overwhelming and stressful as it is exciting.

If you’re considering a trip to the panto but are worried about the experience being overwhelming, then try a relaxed panto performance packed with just as much panto pazazz and stress-free sparkle, but in a more relaxed environment. This year the relaxed performance of Aladdin, at Fairfield Halls, Croydon takes place on Tuesday 19 December at 10.30am.

The performance has been adapted to welcome people of all ages. This includes people who may have sensitivities to loud noise, sudden movement, and bright lights. It may also suit people with learning difficulties, sensory communication disorders or are neurodivergent.

On behalf of the venue, Steve Turner, Associate Director for BH Live said; “We know that many aspects of coming to a theatre can be very challenging for some people. Crowded places, unexpected music, loud noises, special effects, changes to lighting, and applause can all be unsettling. Even the interval can cause confusion because it disrupts the flow of the show.

“We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the magic of pantomime and we have been working closely with our pantomime producer, UK Productions, to include some subtle show changes that will make a big difference without impacting all the fun and thrills panto is well-known for.

“The sound levels will be lowered, the house lights will be on but dimmed, stage smoke will be reduced, and audience members will be free to come and go as they please throughout the show.

“A relaxed performance may also benefit younger preschool-aged children who want to get up and move about freely during the show.”

Martin Dodd Managing Director, UKP added; “We want everyone to be able to enjoy the excitement of live performance and the magic of festive panto.

“With a few minor adjustments, our relaxed performance is far more accessible to an audience that may have otherwise overlooked a chance to go to the theatre.”

In addition to the relaxed performance, there is also a captioned performance on Saturday 30 December at 3pm. Dialogue is displayed on a screen throughout. This performance may benefit those who are deaf, deafened, or hard of hearing. A captioned performance may also be of benefit to those who are neurodivergent, have auditory processing conditions, or if their first language is not English. Join our hero Aladdin, his mother Widow Twankey and his brother Wishee Washee as they embark on a magical adventure and try to defeat the evil Abanazar (Davood Ghadami, Eastenders, Holby City and the BBC’s Beyond Paradise) and his plan to become master of the world with help from the Genie of The Lamp and the Spirit Of The Ring.

Will Aladdin save the day, will he marry the beautiful Princess Jasmine? Will the Genie be freed? There’s only one way to find out… come see Aladdin, Croydon's No.1 Pantomime!

An enchanting tale of magic, mayhem and misunderstandings live on the famous Ashcroft Theatre stage. Aladdin is a laugh-a-minute extravaganza with stunning sets, musical hits, fabulous costumes and amazing special effects to keep audiences both young and old entertained!

Davood Ghadami to star as 'Abanazer' in Fairfield Halls annual pantomime along side Milkshake favourite and Croydon local Kiera Nicole as Jasmine. Staring alongside Davood and Kiera is panto favourite Charlie Guest.

Aladdin, Fairfield Halls, Croydon 16 December 2023 – 7 January 2023