Participants enjoying a picnic lunch on their trip

By: Colleen Mazor, Dianne Doan, Greg Field, Katina Xilias, Support Worker III

On July 7th and August 8th two groups of participants and staff from the North York Supported Work and Community Activities (SWACA) program travelled to Stratford, Ontario. The groups went to enjoy the Stratford Festival Relaxed Performances: Treasure Island and HMS Pinafore.

Before each performance, the actors demonstrated what some of the loud sounds would be, like a gun or canon firing, and reassured everyone that no one would be hurt. Another actor climbed the high wire and again assured everyone that he would be okay. Prior to the Treasure Island performance, audience members were invited to the stage to see the Billy Bones spy glass that showed the stormy cliffs of  England.

These performances were highly unique. Unlike traditional shows, audience members were able to leave their seats and return to the theatre as they wished. There were also television monitors set up in the lobby so that no part of the show would be missed.

Both performances were spectacular! One show was a high seas thriller with audience interaction and the  other a buoyant musical that kept everyone tapping their toes.

Very special thanks to the Stratford Festival for offering these unique venues which allows everyone to be part of the theatre experience.

Stratford trips were coordinated and supported by:

Colleen Mazor, Dianne Doan, Greg Field, Katina Xilias
– North York Region, Support Worker III’s

https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/Visit/Accessibility/Relaxed

Participants enjoying a picnic lunch on their trip

Click here to read the full newsletter in PDF: Newsletter_2017_October