In a new initiative for the festival, from 2025 Amersham Festival will pilot ‘relaxed performances’ - events specifically for people who might otherwise not feel able or comfortable to attend live music performances. These ‘relaxed performances’ are intended for anyone who needs a more informal setting to enjoy our concerts, primarily people with disabilities, health conditions, and other access needs.

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, and patrons 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, people with young children, carers and parents.

What to expect:

Performances will last around 45 minutes, and include short introductions to the players, to the sound of the ensemble, and to the pieces.

Lighting elements are altered, and the house lights are on throughout the performance.
More space is made in the seating area to enable movement as needed.
‘Chill out’ spaces are provided as a comfortable place to rest and take a break
There is an open-door policy, meaning if you need a break, you can go in and out of the concert space 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 friendly volunteers.
After the performance, soloists, conductors and members of the orchestra will be around to say hello!

The goal of these Relaxed Performances is to facilitate an environment that welcomes those who might otherwise find it challenging to access live classical music.

Next relaxed performance:

When:

Where: St Mary’s Church, Old Amersham

Who: Amersham Festival’s orchestra (25 musicians), and conductor Chris Hopkins

What:

Cost: Tickets are free

Space: We welcome everyone to relax and respond to the show in their own way, including making noise and moving freely.

Accessibility: Wheelchair access, induction loop, there is one accessible toilet. Contact us for specific access needs

Booking: Spaces are limited - book yours at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/t-zzeggap

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