ZAMEK Culture Centre

A presentation of the Nordic Relæxt model, rooted in the concept of Relaxed Performance – a cultural format in which spaces, rules and communication are adapted to create a sense of safety, predictability and comfort for audiences with diverse needs.
The Relæxt model was developed in Northern Norway in collaboration with UiT The Arctic University of Norway and Volda University College. It is currently led nationally by the Arctic Philharmonic Orchestra and further developed in cooperation with Film & Kino, including adaptations for cinema settings.
Relæxt screenings include lowered sound levels, partially lit auditoriums, freedom to move in and out of the screening room, the presence of trained hosts, and clearly communicated ground rules for audiences. A key aspect of the model is also close collaboration with film distributors in preparing screening materials, such as film guides.
The project demonstrates how rethinking organisational norms and exhibition practices can meaningfully expand access to cinema and help create safe, welcoming and inclusive cultural spaces.

Presentation of the activities of the Kropka Film Club at Sfinks, the cinema run by the Norwid Culture Centre in Krakow. It is a local initiative geared towards a systemic model of accessible and inclusive film discussion club.

Kropka’s regular film meetings are integrative events, whereby blind persons, people with intellectual disabilities, children on the autism spectrum and their families may share in the cinema experience and discuss films.

The project shows that the cinema is not just a venue for screenings, but also a safe and open space of encounter, dialogue and joint experience of culture.

When the films we present sometimes include distressing themes and scenes and lead to hard post-screening conversations, what can we do to hold our audience with care? In this case study from Reclaim The Frame - the UK’s campaign for gender justice in cinema - we’ll explore different approaches to people-centred practice. From the various considerations involved in introducing films and facilitating discussions, through to content notes, comfort levels, and supporting those participating, this session aims to share ideas around inclusion in its broadest sense as we collectively work towards creating safe(r) spaces for cinema, and braver conversations around it. 

Delivered by: Melanie Iredale (She/her), Director, Reclaim The Frame 

Graphic. On a grey background, right in the centre, there is a photograph showing the audience in the Cinema Room during a meeting. Above the photograph is the logo of Forum Without Barriers and a caption which reads: Presentations. Below is the title of the event: Accessible Events: Spaces Created with Diverse Needs in Mind.