A SPECIAL performance of the pantomime at Bradford's Alhambra Theatre will be staged for the first time after being tailored for people with learning difficulties.

A 'relaxed' show of Jack and the Beanstalk, starring Bradford comedian Billy Pearce and Only Fools and Horses star John Challis, will now take place on Tuesday, January 12, from 2pm.

The performance is aimed at people who are on the autistic spectrum, those who have sensory and communication disorders, or those with a learning disability.

Mr Pearce, who is starring in his 17th pantomime at the Alhambra Theatre this year, said he is looking forward to a new experience on stage during the relaxed performance.

He said: "I have never done a relaxed performance before.

"It will be an interesting experience.

"It's only right that all people are given the opportunity to see the show, if they would like to.

"It's great and it will be a new experience for me. I'm not sure how it will work. It's bound to be different. All of the cast and crew will do their best with it.

"It has been a brilliant run so far. It's a brilliant show. The feedback we have had has been fantastic."

The performance aims to create a welcoming, less formal atmosphere to help reduce anxiety levels for those who attend.

Other alterations include lighting and special effects which will be slightly altered.

These include removing strobes and flashing lights and reducing loud noises but the overall content of the show will not be specifically changed.

It has been created to provide an opportunity for people who would otherwise find it difficult to come to see a show. It is available to people who make involuntary noise, or are likely to need to talk a lot, or move around.

Adam Renton, general manager of Bradford Theatres, said the additional performance will give everyone the chance to enjoy seeing a pantomime.

He said: "We are excited to be able to offer this specially-tailored performance as a welcome addition for those members who have autism or other disabilities and who find it hard to attend live theatre.

"The inclusive welcome and relaxed atmosphere will give everyone the chance to come and experience pantomime."

The Alhambra already offers a wide range of services within stated shows for people with hearing and sight problems, including sign language interpreted, audio described and captioned performances similar to television subtitling giving deaf, deafened or hard of hearing people access

to live performance.

Tickets for the relaxed performance of Jack and the Beanstalk are still available, priced £13. The performance will also be signed.

The pantomime continues at the Alhambra Theatre until Sunday, January 24.

For more information, call 01274 432000.