ACCESS

On this page, you will find all the access provisions for our D/deaf, visually impaired, disabled and neurodivergent patrons.

We believe that the experience of live theatre should be accessible to everyone. Being a site-responsive theatre company means that we use fabulously unique, non-theatre venues, (such as churches, gardens, castles, fields, etc.), to create exciting theatre experiences.

However by their nature, age or original use, they may not have been intended for theatre performances and their audiences. Nevertheless we will always seek to ensure that access is a priority throughout our production process and that our shows are as accessible and as welcoming as possible.

Carers: Registered disabled patrons who are unable to attend without a carer will automatically be offered a complimentary ticket for their essential companion. Please call the Box Office to arrange. GSC Stewards are on hand at every performance to assist patrons to and from their seats.

To enable us to make your experience as enjoyable and comfortable as possible, please call the Box Office on 01483 304384 or email our Front of House team in advance if you have any questions that are not answered below.

Mobility | Audio DescriptionRelaxed Performances | BSL Interpreted | Content Warnings |

MOBILITY

PRIDE & PREJUDICE: Holy Trinity is a step-free venue. Please refer to the venues page for details on on the best place to park and routes to the venue.

YOUNG COMPANY: Click here for Millmead Baptist Church's Accessibility page

THE SHAKESPEARE WALKS: These outdoor walking events will follow a step-free route. Should there be any changes in the route we will post these details here.

Please let us know in advance if you or anyone in your party has any physical access requirements, and we will do our very best to help. You can also type these details into a box during the online booking process.

See the Venues & Directions page for nearest Blue Badge Parking


ASSISTANCE DOGS

Hearing and Guide Dogs are welcome at all performances. Please note that performances can involve loud noises.

 


AUDIO DESCRIPTION

YOUNG COMPANY & SHAKESPEARE WALKS - We regret that we are not able to provide Audio Description for these events.

Infra-red headsets provide a private live commentary of the onstage action whilst the dialogue continues live simultaneously. Pre-show notes will be given via the headsets 15 minutes before the show is due to begin.

Our award-winning audio described performances are delivered by the wonderful Kerry Elkins, who has been describing for us since 2013 and travels all over the country describing theatre for blind and visually impaired theatregoers.

Here is an example of the description specially recorded for our online production of Henry V in 2021.

TOUCH TOURS are an opportunity for blind and partially sighted patrons to explore the world of the play in advance of the performance.  Our Audio Describer will lead the tour into the performance space and facilitate access to set and scenery, props and costumes, providing in depth information about the visual aspects of the production.  Guide dogs, companions, family and friends are welcome on Touch Tours.

Please state your intention to join the Touch Tour at the time of booking.

 

PRIDE & PREJUDICE - Saturday 24 Feb, 2.30pm

YOUNG COMPANY & SHAKESPEARE WALKS - We regret that we are not able to provide Audio Description for these events.

When booking for this service please make a note in the comments box at check out so that we can best assist you during your visit. If you require a free Essential Companion ticket, please call the Box Office on 01483 304384 to arrange this.

In a BSL INTERPRETED performance, a qualified interpreter will stand in a visible position and interpret the spoken and heard elements of a performance into British Sign Language.

In a BSL INTEGRATED performance, the interpreter will be part of the action onstage. You may see the interpreter interacting with the actors onstage and they may be in costume.

Please note, due to the variety of our venues, we regret that we cannot offer induction loops.

 

 

 RELAXED PERFORMANCES

PYOUNG COMPANY & SHAKESPEARE WALKS - We regret that we are not able to provide Audio Description for these events.

A relaxed performance is open to everyone and is intended specifically to be sensitive to and accepting of audience members who may benefit from a more relaxed environment, including (but not limited to) those with Autistic Spectrum Conditions, anyone with sensory and communication impairments or learning disabilities. Babes-in-arms and small children are also welcome. We encourage a more casual approach to front-of-house etiquette and audience members are free to move or make involuntary noise if they need to.

 

 


CONTENT NOTICES

PRIDE & PREJUDICE

Minimal use of flashing lights, simulated thunder and theatrical haze are used in this production. There is one moment when a storm effect is used. If you would like to be seated in an area where you can be alerted by the Front of House team before the thunder and lightning effect is used please email our Front of House Manager in advance.

YOUNG COMPANY & SHAKESPEARE WALKS - Details will be posted here in due course.

At GSC we’re passionate about producing classic stories with energy, invention and inclusivity, and because we want you to experience them with the same surprise and excitement as their first audiences did we don’t want to give away any ‘spoilers’ when promoting them. Also, because of how theatre is made, we only finalise all the content and technical elements of the production, including lighting and sound effects, during the final week of rehearsals.

However, we are aware that these plays can depict scenes and characters which may cause distress or trigger challenging emotions for some of our audience members. Therefore we will share on this page information about the themes and the known potential triggers in the production as early as possible.

If you have any questions, please contact us by email [email protected]


MENTAL HEALTH

Some mental health conditions can make it difficult for people to attend performances. If, for whatever reason, you feel that there is something we can do to make your time with us easier, please let us know. Email us