Relaxed Programme
Relaxed performances are for everyone, and they may benefit those who might normally find it challenging to access theatre.
Relaxed performances are for everyone, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment which can be enjoyed by all. During these performances, we have a laid-back approach to noise and movement coming from the audience, permitting and encouraging everyone to relax and respond naturally.
‘It was great to hear people just being themselves, without worrying about consequences’
‘The relaxed performance allowed my children to enjoy something new, be themselves, educate them and treat them to something not so expensive, affordable, educational, enjoyable and inclusive.’
Book your tickets by calling our box office team on 020 7845 9300. Large groups and schools should book tickets by email [email protected], we aim to respond within 3 working days. Please provide all access requirements for your party so we can make your visit as smooth as possible.
2023/24 Season Relaxed Programme
The ENO’s Relaxed Programme will take two forms on the main stage this season. For Iolanthe, and The Magic Flute we will have Relaxed Performances, and for The Barber of Seville we will have our first Discover Opera Experience – deconstructing the opera for audiences, providing a shortened, and guided version of the opera, which will performed in a relaxed setting.
Iolanthe Relaxed Performance: Wednesday 25 October at 13.00
The Magic Flute Relaxed Performance: Tuesday 12 March at 11.00
The Barber of Seville Discover Opera Experience: Tuesday 27 February at 11.00
Who are they for?
Relaxed performances are open to everybody.
You may choose to attend a relaxed performance because you prefer the inclusive environment, or because of an access requirement, which might include anyone with dementia, learning disabilities, an autistic spectrum condition, Tourette’s syndrome, sensory disorders, anxiety, bladder and bowel conditions, and those with young children or babies.
‘I was scared to take my son who loves opera to an opera – this has shown me that he will be fine and love it and just as importantly he can attend non-relaxed performances as he did so well at it.’
What to expect at an ENO Relaxed Performance:
What’s different:
- Open-door policy: you can leave your seat and the auditorium as much as you like throughout the performance as we keep the house lights up.
- Making noise during the performance is permitted, and encouraged.
- Auditorium doors open much earlier.
- Dedicated ‘chill-out space’ and quiet area in front of house, plus an alternative space to watch the performance on a screen in the foyer.
- Additional friendly members of staff to help and support your visit.
- Visual Story and Sonic Story resources, available online and printed copies on-the-day.
- You will meet the orchestra before the show starts and hear the sections play.
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 also 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.’
Call the Box Office to book your opera tickets
How to book
As part of ENO’s Under 21 scheme, all young people under 21 can go for free* and adult tickets start from £25. Please book your opera tickets by calling our Box Office team on 020 7845 9300.
For groups and schools, please email our Box Office team on [email protected], we aim to respond within 3 working days. Please provide all your access requirements of your party when making your booking so we can make your visit as smooth and easy as possible.
Call the Box Office to book your opera tickets
About Iolanthe
Gilbert & Sullivan’s hilarious Iolanthe is a satirical fantasy.
Phyllis and Strephon wish to marry, but as Phyllis is a ward of court she requires the Lord Chancellor’s permission. The Lord Chancellor, however, wants her for himself.
About The Barber of Seville
Bribery, deception and disguise. Figaro needs all his wiles to help the Count out-wit Dr Bartolo and ensure true love wins the day. ENO‘s classic production of The Barber of Seville is a feast of frivolous fun. Enjoy Figaro’s mischievous escapades as he assists Count Almaviva in prising the beautiful Rosina away from her lecherous guardian, Dr Bartolo.
About The Magic Flute
One of the greatest operas ever written, Mozart’s timeless follows the adventures of Prince Tamino and the bird-catcher Papageno on their quest to rescue Pamina. To assist their mission, they are given musical instruments enhanced with magical powers, which they deploy to conquer the trials and tribulations placed in their path towards a deeper understanding of true love and happiness.
Call the Box Office to book your opera tickets
*Please note that there is an under 21 allocation for each show and when these run out, under 21s will need to purchase a ticket.
