Not as enjoyable as previously
4
4
Date of visit: June 2015
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Good
I was on Level 1, row D this time. Wonderful view and sound but, because I was watching an opera not in English, I needed to read the surtitles. Being so close to the stage meant my companion and I had to crane our necks which we both found uncomfortable. There is no bar on Level 1 so we had to go up in the lift to the bar which cut down on the time we had to enjoy our drinks during the interval. At the end, the lift on our side of the auditorium was out of order. The notice did not tell us there was a second lift, nor how to access it. We found it eventually and a friendly and helpful member of staff held open the doors at the other side of the auditorium, which was how the lift was accessed, and told us that there is another lift backstage should both lifts be out of order. There are wheelchair spaces at the back of the circle which would have been better but I think they had sold out by the time I booked. I have booked non-disabled seats for next time.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
We sat near a blind man who had been supplied with a headset so I assume that was for translation and audio description. He had his guide dog with him.
Parking & Transport
Excellent
The venue has its own carpark and tickets can be purchased for the disabled spaces when tickets for events are booked but there were none available when I booked. There was disabled parking available in the public multi-storey car park very close by. Tickets for this can also be purchased for £3.60 in advance if you are attending an event at WMC. We didn't know this but our parking only cost £4 anyway.
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
I didn't use the accessible toilets this time.
Staff
Excellent
Friendly and helpful.
Additional Information
If you are confined to a wheelchair, try to avoid being so close to the front if you need to read surtitles. If you can manage to walk a short distance, seats at the back of the circle cost £37 each as opposed to £40 each for the wheelchair spaces on Level 1 and you get a better view, better sound, no neck strain if you need to read surtitles and a bar on the same level (Level 4.)
