The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra (ASO) has been delivering relaxed concerts aimed at making live music accessible to all, including those with disabilities.
In partnership with Beyond Bank, Can:Do 4Kids, The Foskett Foundation, Access2Arts and Tutti Arts, the concerts feature familiar music from films like Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Wars, Harry Potter and the Avengers, and are designed to be sensory-friendly with reduced ticket sales to avoid overcrowding.
ASO also provides detailed information about the concert experience, including details about Auslan interpreters, to ensure the booking process is seamless and stress-free.
ASO Partnerships Manager Catherine Woods said people of all abilities deserved the opportunity to enjoy their music, however reducing ticket sales to accommodate had an impact on the budget.
“Music is so important in terms of education and expressing things that maybe you can't put into words,” she said.
“It being subsidised and supported by our partners is tremendously helpful because it allows us to limit tickets to each show to ensure the venue is more accessible and inclusive.
“It would just be too overwhelming if it's too dark, too crowded and you have to sit still, we don't want it to be a stress, we want people to come and really enjoy this.”
Catherine said Beyond Bank had been an integral partner financially, however their staff were also really invested in the outcomes of the program.
“I've heard the lengthy amount of stuff (Beyond Bank) do for a range of organisations, but they always make us feel really special and valued,” she said.
“We give them some complimentary tickets, and invariably they're giving them to another community group.
“We are big Beyond Bank fans – they've just been absolutely great.”
