The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra is committed to increasing access to symphonic music by providing exceptional musical experiences in an inclusive environment. We are very excited to present our first relaxed performances this season!
2019-20 Relaxed Performances:
- Friday, November 1, 2019 (10:30am): A Day in Bohemia
- Friday, February 21, 2020 (10:30am): Hétu and Franck
Relaxed performances are designed to make artistic spaces more welcoming and comfortable for neuro-diverse audience members, anyone on the autism spectrum, and people with sensory and/or communication disorders or learning disabilities. However, everyone can enjoy and benefit from the relaxed concert environment, including parents with babies and toddlers, individuals with Tourette’s syndrome, anyone who experiences anxiety, and folks who would simply like a more easygoing atmosphere when attending a concert!
Here is how the relaxed performance will differ from other WSO concerts:
- Patrons can come and go from the performance at any time they wish
- Patrons are welcome to respond to the music in any way they would like – clapping, singing, vocalizing, moving, dancing, and so on are all encouraged and welcomed
- Audience members will have advance access to a Visual Experience Guide that details the concert experience, step by step, and a concert-specific Concert Experience Guide with detailed information about the performance itself (see links below)
- Three rows of seats at the back of the hall will be kept available for guests who wish to move away from the sound of the Orchestra on stage
- Patrons will have access to a quiet room furnished with comfortable seating, stress-relieving fidgets, and relaxing activities
- The WSO will provide access to earplugs for anyone who may wish to utilize them
- Additional assistive supports will be available in the lobby for anyone who needs them, including wheelchairs, assistive listening devices, and sound-dampening earphones
- Special interactive pre-concert activities will allow audience members to get up-close and personal with elements of the symphonic experience
Additional Resources
- Visual Experience Guide
- A Day in Bohemia Concert Experience Guide
- Hétu and Franck Concert Experience Guide (check back soon)
The WSO would like to acknowledge the support of Prelude Music, Canadian Mennonite University, and our Share the Music program for their support of this endeavor.