Relaxed Events
What makes a relaxed event ‘relaxed?’
Relaxed events are specially tailored screenings, exhibitions, concerts and other cultural spaces for neurodivergent audiences and artists.
These spaces can often be overwhelming for those with sensory needs, making the experience stressful and off-putting.
In an effort to make these spaces accessible for all, relaxed events create designated spaces that are free of neurotypical conventions, and open to alternative ways of being.
What can I expect from a relaxed screening?
Exact adjustments vary between venues. However, the most common adjustments you can expect include the following:
Customers can select their seats when they arrive in the auditorium, where you will be able to sit with family/friendship groups or leave space between yourself and other groups
House lights slightly dimmed, but not turned off
Volume turned slightly down
Freedom to move around, make noise and stim
Signposted quiet area near the auditorium
No advertisements and trailers before the film
What’s the difference between relaxed and autism friendly events?
Contrary to perception, relaxed events are not just for autistic audiences. The common differences are as follows:
Relaxed events are for neurodiverse audiences. This means audiences made up of many different neurotypes, including neurotypical people, and people with different forms of neurodivergence, such as ADHD and Tourette’s.
Whilst many autism friendly events are specifically aimed at autistic children and their parents/carers, relaxed events are created for all ages (depending on the event).
Can I attend a relaxed event if I don’t identify as neurodivergent?
Yes! These events are made to accommodate a wide range of neurotypes. We welcome all who do not identify as neurodivergent to come along and experience film, art and music from an alternative perspective. Plus, you will be supporting the programmers and venues so that they will be able to put on more of these events in the future.