Finnish theatres introduce sensory-friendly performances

Finnish theatres are increasingly adapting performances to accommodate audiences with sensory sensitivities, with Kuopio City Theatre aiming to offer sensory-friendly versions of all its productions, reports Yle.

At these performances, traditional theatre rules are relaxed: house lights remain dimmed, audience members can move around or change seats during the show, and quiet conversation is permitted. The goal is to create a more accessible experience for neurodivergent attendees, including those on the autism spectrum or with ADHD.

Kuopio’s initiative follows similar efforts in Espoo, Turku, and Tampere, where venues have introduced “relaxed performances” with adjusted lighting, sound levels, and flexible audience behaviour guidelines. In Turku, theatres even provide sensory kits containing noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses, and fidget tools to ease the experience.

Sound designer Kim Miettinen and lighting technician Juha Mömmö at Kuopio City Theatre have modified the production of Metsolat (The Forest Dwellers) to eliminate flashing lights and reduce sudden loud noises. “I’ve personally lowered the volume of harsh or unexpected sounds,” Miettinen explained.

Satu Martinez, chair of the North Savo ADHD, Autism, and Speech Disorder Association (Eijsveikit), advised the theatre on sensory accessibility. She noted that neurodivergent individuals often avoid traditional performances due to strict behavioural expectations. “Here, you can be yourself—no one minds if you talk, make sounds, or need to move,” she said.

Theatre director Antti Lahti confirmed that Kuopio now plans a sensory-friendly version for every new production. “This isn’t about cost; it’s about willingness. We want everyone to feel welcome and find ways for all to participate.” The theatre has also introduced a smartphone app offering English subtitles and audio-described versions of performances.

Actress Riina Björkbacka acknowledged that performing under dimmed house lights feels different but emphasized adaptability: “We adjust to ensure the show serves everyone’s needs.” Audience member Rosa Martinez, who attended with her mother Satu, praised the experience: “The performance was engaging and fun—I got to laugh.” Her mother suggested only minor adjustments, like lowering music volume in certain scenes.

Finnish Theatres Association communications chief Tiina Piispanen noted that while “fragrance-free” performances (where audiences and staff avoid scented products) have long been standard, relaxed performances mark a broader shift toward inclusivity. “These are steps toward making theatre truly accessible to all,” she said.