Free sensory circus for children set for Eric Morecambe Centre
An inclusive circus performance aimed at children with disabilities and additional learning needs will return to Luton later this month when charity Circus Starr stages a free community event at the Eric Morecambe Centre.
The troupe will present a show with an under-the-sea theme on Tuesday 29 September, offering two relaxed performances at 4.45pm and 7pm. The production is specifically adapted so that children who might otherwise miss out on attending public events can enjoy a live performance in a welcoming environment.
Ringmistress Mariska Gandey will lead the show, joined by clown Edy and the colourful Starr Squad, with acts ranging from juggling to BMX tricks. Circus Starr says the staging will include measures to make the experience accessible, including British Sign Language interpretation, reduced lighting and lower volume, and a relaxed performance style to accommodate varying needs.
- What: Circus Starr sensory performance (under the sea)
- When: Tuesday 29 September, 4.45pm and 7pm
- Where: Eric Morecambe Centre, Luton
- Who for: Children with disabilities and additional learning needs (and their families/carers)
- Price: Free tickets, supported by local businesses
| Performance | Time | Accessible features |
|---|---|---|
| Matinee | 4.45pm | BSL interpreter, toned-down lights, lower volume |
| Evening | 7pm | Relaxed performance, inclusive environment |
Community focus and support
Circus Starr is a performance charity that runs community events designed to be inclusive. For the Luton date the organisation has worked with local businesses to make tickets available free of charge, recognising that the cost of live entertainment can be a barrier for the families it aims to serve.
“Everyone at Circus Starr is so excited to be back with a wonderful new show! Seeing the impact that our event can have on children who usually miss out on attending these kinds of events is truly amazing,”
The comment came from Michelle Crossley, a trustee of Circus Starr, who thanked the businesses whose support makes the shows possible and underlined the importance of the charity’s work in reaching families who might otherwise be excluded from live cultural events.
For local parents and carers the offer of a dedicated sensory performance is significant. Relaxed performances reduce sensory overload and the anxiety that unfamiliar, noisy environments can cause. The inclusion of a British Sign Language interpreter also underlines efforts to make the event accessible to children and families with different communication needs.
Practical information and how to book
All tickets for the Luton performances are free but must be obtained in advance. Circus Starr asks those interested to visit the charity’s website for details on how to apply for tickets or to donate towards future community events. The organisation states that bookings are supported by community-driven businesses whose sponsorship enables the charity to waive ticket fees.
Local agencies, schools and support groups for young people with special educational needs and disabilities will likely regard the event as a welcome addition to the town’s calendar. While cultural provision in Luton includes a range of community arts and leisure activities, events that are explicitly designed with accessibility in mind remain comparatively rare and so attract strong interest from families and support networks.
The return of Circus Starr to Luton highlights the value of partnering local venues, charities and businesses to broaden access to the arts. For parents and carers seeking a live show tailored to their children’s needs, the Eric Morecambe Centre will offer two opportunities to attend on 29 September. Further details and the online booking process are available from Circus Starr at circus-starr.org.uk.
