'If The Stars Had A Sound'
4.5
4.5
Date of visit: February 2025
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
It was brilliant to make a return visit to the Usher Hall to see Mogwai; I had never seen them live before and I'm pleased to say that they didn't disappoint. In fact they were absolutely fantastic. Although I did have an amazing time, I struggled to book tickets for the gig as there are so few disabled seats available at the venue; this really needs to be sorted out. I think that there are 10 seats listed, however, these include the PA spaces so in reality about 4-6. The Usher Hall said that they would contact me if there were any cancellations and by unbelievably good luck (and also probably due to writing to Mogwai's management to complain) they were able to tell me that there was a space available on the viewing platform. Thank you both Usher Hall and Mogwai. Staff were lovely and really helpful. Once we got settled in, we heard the dreamy sounds of the support act: "Cloth " who were followed by the wonderful Kathryn Joseph. By this point, the atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation for Mogwai and as soon as they took to the stage, the crowd was blown away by their psychedelic sound. I even heard them play my favourite song of theirs 'Helicon 1' as well as material from their latest album so it was out of this world - I loved it!
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
Arriving at the venue wasn't a problem, we entered through the wide automatic doors where we were greeted by very friendly members of staff who directed us to the viewing platform. The platform was accessible via a fairly steep ramp (although I managed to negotiate it, the lip at the end is quite sharp (could staff possibly make people more aware of this ?). Once I got up there, I thought that the platform was very well positioned and I had a great view while being part of the crowd and safe simultaneously; for me, it was the perfect balance. The sound was great too. For the disabled spaces upstairs, there is a good-sized lift.
Parking & Transport
Good
I wheeled from a hotel nearby and as the venue is very central, I don't think there would be a problem accessing public transport; there are lots of buses and trains and trams although I can't comment on how accessible they are. There is on-street Blue Badge parking nearby the theatre.
Accessible Toilets
Bad
There was an accessible toilet but it was was unlocked and it was awash inside; this was really disappointing because there was plenty of room to manoeuvre and I saw two Red Cords so it's a shame that the cleanliness didn't represent the rest of the venue. I've given one star as this was a good accessible toilet but you couldn't use it without risk to health.
Staff
Excellent
Staff were lovely and very helpful; they really made it even more special for me. I was also accompanied to the viewing platform, the toilet and the merchandising stall and back again. They offered to get us drinks too and couldn't have been more helpful; they were great craic!
Additional Information
Huge thanks to Mogwai and The Usher Hall for that amazing night! I would highly recommend this venue to all music lovers but I would like it even more if they could have more spaces on the viewing platform. I can't wait to return.
