If you’ve ever wished pantomime magic could be enjoyed without barriers, the Phoenix Theatre in Blyth has rubbed the lamp and made it happen. They’re not just putting on a pantomime this year — they’re making theatre genuinely welcoming.
The Phoenix team are introducing two special performance types for Aladdin: British Sign Language integrated performances and a relaxed performance. It’s thoughtful, inclusive, and exactly the kind of thing that makes you fall a little bit in love with local theatre.
Signed performance: Monday 9th December at 7pm
With integrated sign language, the interpreters aren’t tucked away in a corner. They’re right there beside the action, working alongside the cast and interacting with the performance. Hearing audiences enjoy the full chaos and jokes, while Deaf and hard-of-hearing audience members don’t miss a single gag, pratfall, or genie-related disaster.
Relaxed performance: Monday 16th December at 7pm
This one is designed specifically for children and adults with additional needs. Families, friends, and support workers are encouraged to come along and enjoy a show where comfort, flexibility, and kindness are part of the plan.
For the relaxed performance, the production is adjusted. Softer lighting. Lower sound levels. No bangs or sudden flashes. The cast and front of house team take a more laid-back approach, and most importantly, the audience can move, vocalise, leave and re-enter the auditorium as needed. No judgement. No stern looks. Just people being able to enjoy theatre their way.
As Theatre Manager Kyle Crook said:
“Pantomime is often a child’s first experience of live theatre, and it can be an exciting and transformative encounter that can shape a young person’s ambitions. It is essential that this rich and diverse cultural experience can be enjoyed by as many people as possible.”
He’s right. Theatre isn’t supposed to feel exclusive, intimidating, or stressful. It should feel like a place where everyone belongs. And by including these performances, The Phoenix is opening the doors wider and letting more people in to experience that spark.
Aladdin runs from 6th to 28th December 2025, and for the first time in Phoenix history, there will be shows on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. Expect audience participation, spectacular costumes, enchanting special effects and laughter that leaves your cheeks aching. Whether you’re four or one hundred and four, you’re in for a treat.
We’ve missed you. And the theatre can’t wait to welcome you back for the genie-us pantomime you’ve been waiting for.
Book tickets here:
https://www.thephoenixtheatre.org.uk/whats-on/theatre/aladdin/
Grace Hatchell
Delivering theatre news from the satchel, one show at a time.
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