Assisted Performances

Audio described performances include a live commentary giving details of all the visual aspects of a production. The commentary is interspersed with the actors’ dialogue. Before the play begins you can hear an introduction to the production which gives details of the set, costumes and characters. The commentary is delivered via radio headsets, available from the cloakroom desk in the theatre foyer before the performance.

A touch tour is for blind and partially-sighted customers to familiarise themselves with the set ahead of the performance. You can feel the set, props and costume and familiarise yourself with the voices of the actors and audio describer.

The tour will begin at 12pm and is limited to 25 people, on a first come, first served basis. There is no charge, but bookings must be made in advance by emailing customer.relations@lwtickets.co.uk.

You may also book your audio described performance tickets using the same email address should you not wish to book via the website.

We offer performances with integrated British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation where the interpreter is directed as part of the action onstage. You will see the interpreter interacting with the actors onstage and they will be in costume.

Captioning is live subtitling for theatre. The character names and what they are saying are displayed on large screens next to the stage. The subtitles run at the same time that the lines are said, along with sound effects.

A relaxed performance is where the ambience of the auditorium and theatre ‘rules’ are relaxed. The performance may also be adapted to support people’s needs; for instance, loud noises and music might be turned down. These performances are ideal for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment.

For more information on assisted performances offered by the Royal Shakespeare Company, see our Assisted Performances page.

A chilled performance takes a more casual approach to noise and movement in the auditorium, but the performance itself is unchanged.

This performance is ideal for people who feel more at ease knowing they can go in and out of the auditorium during the show including people with dementia. This performance is for everybody and babes in arms are welcome (not walking or requiring their own seat).

If you would like to book tickets for babies or very young children seated on your lap for a relaxed or chilled performance, please contact the box office before making a booking by emailing customer.relations@lwtheatres.co.uk