Lion King to be first autism-friendly show

An “autism-friendly” performance of The Lion King musical — the first of its kind in the West End — will be staged in London this month.

Theatre managers, the producers and autism charities have worked for months on the performance for children and adults who would normally struggle to cope with a trip to the West End.

It follows two successful events on Broadway. Organisers say demand has been high for the performance on April 14 and it is hoped other musicals will follow suit.

Autism affects more than 500,000 people in Britain and those on the “spectrum” struggle with communication, changes to routine and their environment as well as bright lights and loud noises.

The cast and staff at the Lyceum Theatre have been trained to help them understand the needs of autistic children and adults.

Jarring sounds and strobe lighting in the show have been reduced and the foyer will have quiet and activity areas staffed by autism experts if members of the audience need to leave the auditorium.

Mark Lever, chief executive of The National Autistic Society, said: “This will be an amazing day out for people with autism and their families.”

Thomas Schumacher, producer and president of Disney Theatrical Productions said: “Our experiences of presenting autism-friendly performances on Broadway have been extremely moving; for the audiences, casts and companies.”