Residents with additional needs who may usually avoid visiting the theatre were treated to an inclusive performance of Basingstoke Amateur Theatrical Society's newest show. A relaxed performance of the amateur dramatics group's show, Nativity the Musical, was held at the Haymarket on Tuesday, November 26.

Alterations were made to the performance to ensure that neurodiverse children, adults and their families could enjoy the show.

These included BATS President, Richard Bond, coming on stage and introducing each actor and the character they were playing.

Mr Bond also warned audience members about any startling noises or effects in the show, in addition to the lighting in the theatre remaining on, although dimmed, throughout the performance.

Sponsored by coffee company Lavazza, the show marked the society's second relaxed performance after the success of Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat in 2023, in the group's 60-year history. 

To make the performance possible, the society raised money from corporate sponsors, local councillors and community grant funding in addition to taking on a fundraising activity titled the 'Christmas Cycle Challenge'.

Cast members rode an exercise bike for six hours dressed as Father Christmas, elves, reindeer and more, raising £595, enabling the performance to go ahead.

In addition to changes being made to the show, BATS gave free tickets to special educational needs schools in the area, charity and community organisations to make the performance accessible.

Richard Bond explained to the Gazette that a night at the theatre is 'something a lot of us take for granted', adding: "For those of us with additional needs, finding accessible shows can be a big challenge.

"We are thrilled to be in a position to welcome audiences with additional needs to our production of Nativity the Musical, to experience the enjoyment that live theatre brings.

"This has all been made possible thanks to our kind corporate sponsor; Lavazza Professional UK, community grant funding; Greenham Trust and Hampshire County Councillor community grants, plus support from Team Communications Ltd (BSL interpretation), The MPC Ltd, Music Theatre International, Anvil Arts and our team of SEND experts and BATS volunteers.

"All of which, made it possible for us to stage this wonderful, uplifting and inclusive community engagement event."

Lola Crossman
Basingstoke Gazette