Accessibility Series – Theatre Shows

In this month’s accessibility series, we look at how people with disability can join in on the excitement of watching a live performance at a theatre show.

Discover new plays and performances, where you can sing along and dance to the talent of others. In this article we look at how people with a disability can enjoy the entertainment of these thrilling shows, with the help of special disability access and services.

Capitol theatre

Join in on the fun and watch new shows such as Beauty and the Beast, Moulin Rouge and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Capitol Theatre, located in Haymarket.

This theatre provides a pick-up and drop off point positioned for wheel-chair access on Campbell Street. For seating placement within the theatre, specific rows are reserved for wheelchair bookings only, offering great views of the stage with an extra seat for a companion.

Ushers are also available to assist with storing your wheelchair and bringing it to you when needed, additionally two accessible toilets are located on distinct levels.

Riverside Parramatta – Live theatre and cinema

Riverside Parramatta is committed to making their programs and venues accessible for all. If specific seating is required, audio assistance or accessible parking, staff members can assist.

Sensory friendly performances are shown throughout the year, these ‘relaxed’ shows are modified to allow patrons with Autism and other specific needs to enjoy the performance.

As well as this, some productions are selected to be interpreted using Australian Sign Language, providing an opportunity for patrons who are deaf to access the show.

Other disability friendly theatre centres include:

• Sensorium Theatre (Western Australia) – aimed at people with disability to enjoy the magic of life theatre through a sensory experience
• Monkey Baar Theatre Company, located in the Darling Quarter Sydney – this theatre embraces a multi-disability perspective with programming that caters for patrons with physical, sensory, cognitive and learning difficulties.
• Arts Centre Melbourne – explores a range of relaxed performances, Auslan interpretation, Audio Description and captioning with other accessible options on offer for some events.
• The Regent Theatre Melbourne – ‘lovely theatre with plenty of room, excellent access for the disabled. Access to the stalls can be arranged via a lift and once there you are greeted by an incline and no steps.’ – review
• Swan Hill Town Hall (VIC) – Swan Hill Town Hall supports the Companion Card Program, enabling people with lifelong disability to participate at venues and activities without incurring the cost of a second ticket for their companion. Auslan interpreter services available, wheelchair access and hearing loop installed for individuals with a hearing aid.