Relaxed performances are for those who might normally find it challenging to access theatre.

At ENO Relaxed Performances we welcome audiences to come as they are.

We encourage everyone to relax and respond to the show in their own ways, which often includes making noise and moving freely. Our Relaxed Performances are suitable for those with various access needs including sensory sensitivities. For more information on how we adapt the show and environment for these performances, read our section on What to Expect at an ENO Relaxed Performance.

In ENO’s 2025/26 London Coliseum season, there is a Relaxed Performance of HMS Pinafore on Thursday 29 January 2026, 2pm.

All aboard HMS Pinafore for Gilbert & Sullivan’s hilarious musical tale of a nautical love triangle. The comic opera navigates the tricky waters of class, rank, patriotism and power, in their signature slapstick style.

How do I book?

Please book your relaxed performance tickets by calling our Box Office team on 020 7845 9300. For any groups or schools booking please email [email protected], we aim to contact you within three working days. *Please note that for each show there is an allocation of free tickets for those aged 5 to 20. When these run out, tickets will need to be purchased for this age group.

Please provide all access requirements for your party when making your booking, so we can make your visit smooth and as easy as possible.

Who are Relaxed Performances for?

At ENO Relaxed Performances, we welcome audiences to come as they are, encouraging everyone to relax and respond to the show in their own ways, which often includes making noise and moving freely.

Relaxed performances provide an inclusive environment. You may choose to attend because of an access requirement, which might include people with dementia, learning disabilities, an autistic spectrum condition, Tourette’s syndrome, sensory disorders, anxiety, bladder and bowel conditions.

You are welcome to book for a relaxed performance if you do not have access requirements – please ensure you and your party are aged 5 and above.

What to expect at an ENO Relaxed Performance

We encourage everyone to relax and respond to the show in their own ways, which often includes making noise and moving freely.

  • Light and sound elements are altered and the house lights are on (but low) throughout the performance.
  • Chill out spaces are provided on multiple levels as a comfortable place to rest, with weighted blankets and low light. The show is available to watch live outside of the auditorium.
  • There is an open-door policy, meaning if you need a break, you can go in and out of the auditorium as much as you like.
  • There will be signs around the building to help you find where you want to go. If you need further assistance, you can speak to one of our ENO Helpers. They will be wearing purple or blue t-shirts.
  • We provide additional sensory and visual resources, including a Sonic Story and a Visual Programme. 
    • A Sonic Story maps the sounds of the performance, including particularly loud and quiet moments. 
    • A Visual Programme takes audiences through the story of the opera with additional images from the production. It also highlights certain visual, audio and content moments people may want to be aware of, and provides a widget symbol version of what will happen during the Relaxed Performance.   
  • We encourage audiences to get involved with some arts and crafts, and see some costume pieces up close.
  • There is a pre-performance speech to welcome everyone, meet the Orchestra and hear some excerpts from the show.
  • After the performance, meet cast members who will be in the foyer to say hello!

We understand that opera environments have a reputation for being intense.

The goal of these Relaxed Performances is to facilitate an environment that welcomes those who might otherwise feel that opera is not for them, providing what you may need, before you have to ask for it.

With this in mind, we ask that all audience members respect the needs of others.

All performances at the ENO are performed in English and are captioned.

‘The information was very useful for providing preparation for what was going to happen in the show’

Our ENO Engage team will provide sensory and learning pre-show activities, such as seeing and touching props and trying on costumes from past opera productions. There will also be photo opportunities – you may even see some special appearances from performers in the show.

‘Fantastic pre-performance activities, and a very friendly environment.’