Accessible Theatre
4.5
4.5
Date of visit: December 2023
I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
We went to see the Christmas Play, a favourite with us, for the first time since my accident. I knew the building was accessible but I rang the theatre to ask advice for booking, which I recommend, as I was given a reduction on the ticket price and advised on accessible seats, with great care. The play was very enjoyable, the cafe attached less so (and also rather expensive). The Theatre does its best to be accessible and the staff are terrific. We were in the main theatre. Different advice might be needed for the studio theatre. We will definitely be back to another play when we are in the area.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
All level entry or gentle ramp. However part of the cafe is a step down, only a few tables on the level, though this could be avoided by entering from the other side. I had hoped to eat in the cafe that's in the same building as the theatre but this is no longer possible as it's only function now is a theatre bar. What a pity. There is a lift to access higher floors. I had a reduced theatre ticket but my husband (also my carer) was full price. There is a whole row of seating that is accessible and level entry from a smooth corridor.
Parking & Transport
Excellent
Good car park, free to disabled, with a decent amount of spaces. However the car park limit is 3 hours, which is awkward if you have arrived early to see a play because you want lunch first. This is not the theatre's fault. Car park belongs to the local council, who need to be a bit more flexible for disabled people.
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
I did have to ask a member of staff to tell me where the accessible loo was, and they had to go and ask someone else - so the signage definitely needs improvement. It was nowhere near the other toilets, so a sign there would have been very useful. Once there, it was clean and well equipped. No changing places toilet.
Staff
Excellent
The staff, without exception, were all absolutely wonderful, from the gentleman who minded my walker during the play, to the woman who offered me a better seat, as the ones I had chosen didn't work for me at all, having a low back. She came with us to the seat and made sure I was comfortable. This made a world of difference to my experience of seeing the play. Next time I go, I will know which seats are best for me.
