The Victoria Theatre continually strives to improve accessibility. As part of the many services the Theatre offers there is a minicom line to the box office, level access to the stalls and stalls bar, specially adapted toilets, wheelchair spaces in the auditorium and just recently we have introduced an infra-red system. This innovative system allows the hearing impaired to individually control the sound of the performance from wherever they are sitting.
Wheelchair access
Following recent improvements to the stalls seating area, we now offer easier access and better viewing locations for wheelchair users. So you can be assured of a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we have level access to the stalls from Commercial Street and provide two accessible toilets on the stalls level.
You can also now book wheelchair spaces and companion tickets online if you are registered as a wheelchair user with the Victoria Theatre. Download the guide on the link below to see how to do this.
Hearing Impaired
Box Office
We have an induction loop for hearing aid users in the Box Office.
The Auditorium
In the main auditorium we offer an infra-red audio system that works with your personal in ear devices, combined with portable loop pendants that are supplied by the theatre. This allows customers to sit anywhere in the circle or stalls and adjust their individual volume depending on where they’re sitting. The theatre can also supply headsets for customers that are hard of hearing but do not use in ear devices. If you require an audio system pendant, headset or any assistance please ask a member of the front of house team when you arrive at the theatre. Any equipment borrowed must be returned at the end of your visit.
Visual Impairments
We now offer versions of our seasonal brochure in large print. Please contact the box office to request copies to be sent to you.
Guide dogs are welcome and we will be pleased to provide a bowl of water on request.
Complimentary tickets
We are pleased to offer a complimentary ticket to essential carers of people with additional needs. Please contact the Box Office for details.
Assisted Performances
For our annual pantomime, we offer assisted performances which include:
Side of Stage Interpreted Performance
A SoS interpreted performance aims to improve access to the pantomime for hearing impaired people who use British Sign Language (BSL). The interpreter stands down stage left and interprets as much of the performance as they are able to the audience.
Integrated Performance
An Integrated Performance is for hearing impaired people who use British Sign Language (BSL) where 2 interpreters are used. Rather than standing on the side of the stage both interpreters are rehearsed into and take a full part in the performance by shadowing the main actors on stage.
Relaxed Performance
A relaxed performance is tailored to ensure that individuals and families who may not usually attend the theatre and is designed to meet the specific needs of people who may, for example:
Have specific access requirements e.g. large mobility equipment which might impair sight lines or require additional support or space to manoeuvre around the auditorium
Have attention or concentration issues and/or autism etc. and whom may need to move around in or leave the auditorium repeatedly during the performance
Struggle with specific lighting effects, loud noises and music
Vocalise involuntarily during performances.
Touch Tour Performance
A Touch Tour takes place prior to the main performance and is aimed at improving access to the performance for people with a visual impairment. A touch tour involves a number of visually impaired customers meeting some of the production company and cast before they attend a performance. During the meeting customers will be offered an opportunity to touch and feel the costumes, wigs, props and other aspects of the production and to have these elements of the performance described to them. There is also a chance for customers to hear the voices of some of the key characters and listen to the story of the pantomime if they are not already familiar with it.
Seat Size Information
The seat widths and legroom in the auditorium varies between the Stalls, Circle and Balcony. Below is a guide to seat widths and legroom. Please note that all seats have fixed arm rests and legroom is measured from the back of the seat to the middle of the back of the seat in front. All measurements are in millimetres.
The Stalls:
Seat Width: 430mm
Leg Room: 750mm
The Circle:
Seat Width: 470mm
Leg Room: Front Row - from 580 to 700mm, Other Rows - from 570 - 660mm
The Balcony:
Seat Width: 420mm
Leg Room: Front Row - 760mm, Other Rows - 660mm
Let us know
We would be delighted if when booking tickets, you would speak to our Box Office Team about any specific requirements you may have so we can ensure you have an excellent experience at the theatre.
