Accessible Performances

Relaxed and Sensory Friendly Performances
Experience the joy of dance in a supportive theatre setting.
An opportunity for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders, and other sensitivity issues or special needs, to experience the world of ballet in a sensory-friendly environment. At these performances there is a more casual approach to front of house etiquette and a more relaxed attitude to noise (voluntary and involuntary) in the auditorium. The aim is to minimize patrons’ anxiety and to ensure they have a safe and enjoyable theatre visit.
A social story is prepared for each performance, containing descriptions of what to expect at the performance. This social story is a great way to ensure patrons get the maximum enjoyment from the experience.
Dazzlehands Relaxed Performances
Wellington – St James Thetare
Sunday 13th April
12:30pm
BOOK HERE
Relaxed Performance Booklet
Kāpiti – Te Raukura Ki Kāpiti
Wednesday 16th April
12:30pm
BOOK HERE
Relaxed Performance Booklet
For enquiries email education@rnzb.org.nz

Audio Described Performances
In 2025, RNZB is proud to be presenting audio description in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch during our Nutcracker season.
These performances will give blind and vision impaired patrons the opportunity to attend a performance with a trained audio describer broadcasting commentary which patrons will hear through an earpiece.
A free Touch Tour and an introduction to ballet terminology will be held before the show. Touch set pieces, feel costumes, handle key props and learn about the various ballet terms and the shapes and quality of the movements from the ballet.
2025 Audio Described performance Dates:
- Wellington: Saturday 08 November, 1.30pm
- Christchurch: Saturday 15 November, 1.30pm
- Auckland: Saturday 06 December, 1.30pm

NZ Sign Language Interpreted Performances
New Zealand Sign Language interpreted performances feature a trained interpreter who appears on stage signing alongside the actor for Deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons in the audience.
After presenting our first performances with sign language narration in 2021, we are thrilled to continue offering more events.
Dazzlehands Sign Language Interpreted Performance
Wellington – St James Theatre
Sunday 13th April
12:30pm
BOOK HERE
For enquiries email education@rnzb.org.nz