A small but mighty team committing to accessibility for all
Ren Zhang (they/them) // Contributor
Tobin Elias (he/him) // Illustrator
On Nov. 14, 2023, Capilano University and the BlueShore Financial Centre for the Performing Arts announced the introduction of relaxed performances for theatre shows at the 400-seat venue.
These performances include accessibility changes such as the house lights staying on for the duration of the show, doors remaining open for patrons to come and go, a designated quiet room made available outside the auditorium, and stage volume and effects reduced. In addition, patrons are welcome to make noise and move around during these relaxed shows, and encouraged to bring their own kit of sensory supports, such as earplugs, fidget toys, (non-gum) chew items, and sunglasses.
While not the first to do relaxed performances, the idea for these particular shows came from the theatre department. “They were the ones who wanted to look at relaxing their content, and we took on the accessibility piece that marries into that,” explained Sandra McRae, the general manager of the theatre.
“[Theatre has] been ahead of the game in terms of being accessible, accommodating, [and] inclusive — it’s always been a place where you can just be yourself, no judgement, and you are welcome,” added McRae. “And I think that translates to the work we’re doing now.”
In addition to the introduction of these relaxed performances, there are new sensory guides for each theatre show available on the CapU website. Also called visual stories, they are comprehensive information packages that have everything people might want to know about attending a show at the theatre, such as directions, routes for accessibility and washroom locations. The guides also include program-specific considerations, such as notices for content or special effects. The guides that accompany each performance are the brainchild and work of Sherri Lynne Day, the box office supervisor.
On top of making sure student productions, professional concerts and community events run smoothly at the BlueShore, the team also produces shows at different venues in Vancouver. About their teamwork, McRae stated, “We’re like a little family over here, doing our thing and supporting one another.”
After the pandemic shook the performing arts world, the comeback of live shows has people more grateful than ever to be back in the audience. “It is so amazing to see the level of energy that comes from the performers doing their thing, the feedback from the audience, laughing or tapping along,” shared McRae, who sees music as healing, joyful and expressive. “[When] the doors open at the end of the night and everyone comes out smiling, and you can almost feel that sense of joy and love — that’s what I’m hoping for is to keep spreading that kind of joy. Aside from ‘come out and support the artists,’ come out and have a beautiful experience that will enhance your life.”
The next relaxed performances will be The Cherry Orchard on Saturday, February 17, and Spongebob the Musical on Sunday, March 24. Sensory guides for upcoming shows can be found at https://www.capilanou.ca/about-capu/get-to-know-us/news/2023/title-6897074-en.php.
