Fairfield Halls is helping more people experience the magic of pantomime this festive season with a captioned performance of Cinderella, making the much-loved Christmas tradition more accessible for audiences who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing.

Packed with laughter, larger-than-life characters, dazzling costumes and plenty of pantomime fun, Cinderella promises a magical theatre experience for all the family.

The captioned performance, taking place on Monday, 21 December, 2026 at 2pm, will help more audiences follow the story, enjoy the comedy and join in with the festive fun.

Similar to subtitles on television, captions display the words spoken or sung by performers in real time, allowing audiences to follow the action as it unfolds on stage. Display units are positioned within the set, beside the stage or elsewhere in the auditorium. A captioned performance is the same pantomime, but presented with accessibility in mind.

Alongside dialogue and song lyrics, captions can identify who is speaking and communicate important sound information, including sound effects and off-stage noises. This helps audiences follow the twists and turns of Cinderella’s story, from the Ugly Sisters' antics to the excitement of the royal ball, ensuring they don't miss important moments.

Captioned performances can be particularly beneficial for people who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing, giving them greater access to the dialogue, songs and sounds that bring the pantomime to life. They can also help people whose first language is not English by providing additional support for following conversations, lyrics, and the story.

Fairfield Halls is committed to making live entertainment accessible to as many people as possible, helping more families and individuals enjoy the shared experience of a traditional pantomime. By offering captioned performances, we aim to remove barriers to theatre and ensure more people can join in the festive celebrations.

Whether audiences are cheering for Cinderella, booing the baddies or singing along with the cast, the captioned performance offers another way to enjoy this much-loved festive tradition.

This year's captioned performance is taking place on Monday 21 December, 2026 at 2pm.

For further information about accessibility at Fairfield Halls, including details of accessible facilities and services, visit fairfield.co.uk/access.

Anyone wishing to discuss their accessibility requirements ahead of their visit can contact the team on 0300 500 0595 or email [email protected].

FAQs

What is a relaxed performance?

A captioned performance is the same pantomime, but with the actors’ words displayed on screens during the show, making it more accessible for audiences who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing. Captions can also be helpful for those whose first language is not English, so everyone can follow the story, songs and jokes.

Who is the relaxed performance for?

Everyone is welcome. However, a captioned performance can be particularly helpful for people who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing, as well as those who find it easier to follow dialogue and songs when they can read the words on screen. Captions may also benefit people whose first language is not English or anyone who would appreciate additional support in following the story.

Is it still the full pantomime?

Yes! You'll see the same story, characters, cast and comedy. The aim is to make the environment more accessible, not to make it a lesser version of the show.

What accessible facilities are available at Fairfield Halls?

More information is available at fairfield.co.uk/access. You are also welcome to discuss your accessibility requirements in advance by contacting our team at 0300 500 0595, or at [email protected].