Donations doubled for Birmingham Hippodrome’s Christmas Challenge to support Relaxed Performances

Birmingham Hippodrome is urging people to dig deep during their annual festive fundraising campaign, aiming to raise £20,000 for Relaxed Performances. To achieve this ambitious target the theatre has joined The Big Give’s #ChristmasChallenge18, which will see all donations doubled for just seven days (27 November – 4 December).

Money raised will go towards the expansion of the theatre’s existing Relaxed Performance programme, enabling theatre-goers with Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and special needs to experience the magic of live theatre.

The inclusive shows see loud noises and bright lights reduced, and house lights raised. Guests are free to walk in and out of the auditorium and if anyone wants to take a break there are calm spaces and sensory rooms nearby.

Birmingham Hippodrome staged its first Relaxed Performance in 2013, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Since then, thanks to the generosity and support of donors, volunteers and funders there has been12 other inclusive shows.

Vicki Darby, Relaxed Performance attendee, said: “I was so impressed with the way Birmingham Hippodrome include all types of disabilities with the use of audio, signing and captions available.

“I liked that staff were very visible with their sparkly hats handing out toys for children to choose and hold. The word searches and puzzles were great and kept my daughter busy while we waited to go in and then the performance was so perfect for them.”

Rob Macpherson, Director of Marketing & Development at Birmingham Hippodrome commented: “As a charity, fundraising support is essential to help us continue our Hippodrome Projects work with the community. Our Relaxed Performances are incredibly popular and by supporting this campaign you can help ensure even more people get to enjoy the magic of live theatre.

“I encourage everyone to donate as much or as little as they can remembering that all donations will be doubled!”

To donate from 27 Nov 12 noon, visit: www.birminghamhippodrome.com/biggive