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TRANSCRIPT
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Audio Described, British Sign
Language Interpreted, Captioned,
Relaxed and Dementia-Friendly
Performances in Leeds
September - January 2020
Access Leeds Theatre
Newsletter
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Access Leeds Theatre
Access Leeds Theatre is a partnership between Carriageworks
Theatre, City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds Grand Theatre, Leeds
Playhouse, Northern Ballet and Opera North. We aim to provide
information about accessible theatre performances in Leeds, all in
one place to make it easier for you to find something you’d like to
see. We are proud to be the first regional collective producing a
comprehensive newsletter for patrons using accessible
performances.
We offer a number of services to help ensure that everyone can
enjoy a high-quality theatre experience in Leeds, including audio
described, sign interpreted, captioned, relaxed, and dementia-
friendly performances.
We welcome your feedback so please let us know if you feel there is information missing or if it could be made clearer.
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Index
About Accessible Performances 4
Audio Described performances 5
BSL performances 8
Captioned performances 11
Relaxed performances 13
Dementia Friendly performances 14
The venues and organisations 15
Useful links 22
Make sure you tell Box Office you are
booking for AD, BSL, CAP, RELAXED or
DF so that you don't miss any information
or discounts
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About Accessible Performances
Audio Described performances support people who are blind or
partially sighted to access live performance. Audience members
listen to a description of what’s happening visually on stage via a
small headset. The audio describer will often also read an
introduction before the performance begins, describing the scenery
and costumes in detail, and some organisations send this out in
advance on CD or via an email link. Some organisations offer a
touch tour beforehand where audience members are invited to
arrive early and are shown onto the stage to feel the sets, props
and costumes and hear more about the production they’re about to
see.
BSL interpreted performances allow people who are Deaf or for
whom British Sign Language is their first or preferred language
access to live performance. BSL interpreters provide a linguistic
and artistic interpretation. The interpreter usually stands on one
side of the stage, and audience members who have booked for the
sign-interpretation will be seated on that side of the auditorium.
Some productions integrate signing into the show with one or more
actors signing throughout.
Captioning is similar to television subtitling and gives Deaf,
deafened and hard of hearing people access to live
performances. A captioner carefully prepares and cues text that
appears in real time on units placed to the side of the stage,
centrally or within the set.
Relaxed performances are for people who prefer to watch a
performance in a more relaxed environment, including people with
an autism spectrum condition or learning disability and their
families and carers. Loud noises and strobe lighting are omitted,
house lights are not fully dimmed and people are more free to
move about. Approaches vary so contact venues for details.
Dementia-friendly performances make slight adaptations to
technical aspects of the show, offer flexible seating options and
always keep a relaxed attitude to audience responses and
movement in the auditorium. Additional staff are trained to
sensitively welcome people living with dementia.
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Audio Described
Performances
There are no beginnings Friday 11 October – Saturday 2 November Bramall Rock Void, Leeds Playhouse All shows audio described
Between the years of 1975 and 1980 the women of Leeds lived in fear. With no clue as to who was responsible for the sustained attacks and murders across the city, the authorities urged women to stay at home. From the fear and fury, a steadfast solidarity arose, birthing the Reclaim the Night movement and echoing down the generations to this day.
Opera North present La bohème Tuesday 22 October, 7.30pm Touch tour, 6.15pm Leeds Grand Theatre Audio describers: Michele Jackson & Alice Gilmour
On a cold Christmas night in bohemian Paris, Mimì knocks on Rodolfo’s door in search of a candle light and a love is sparked that changes their lives forever. But can this love survive the harsh winter?
My Beautiful Laundrette Saturday 26 October, 2:30pm Courtyard Theatre, Leeds Playhouse Audio Describer: in-house
Young British Pakistani, Omar, transforms his Uncle’s run-down laundrette into a thriving business. After being confronted by a fascist gang, Omar recognises school-friend Johnny and uses their history to diffuse the situation. As they renovate the laundrette together, love blossoms between them.
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Audio Described
Performances
The King and I Saturday 9 November, 2.30pm Leeds Grand Theatre Audio describer: Mindseye
One of the greatest musicals from the golden age of musicals – adored by the public and critics alike - with one of the finest scores ever written including; Whistle a Happy Tune, Getting to Know You, and Shall We Dance. This production features a company of over 50 world-class performers and a full-scale orchestra.
We Will Rock You Wednesday 13 December, 2.30pm Leeds Grand Theatre Audio describer: Mindseye
The worldwide smash hit musical by Queen and Ben Elton returns to the UK. The multi-million-pound show dazzles all the senses in breath-taking style. Brian May said: “This is a stunning state-of-the art new-look production of WWRY - but of course the original story is now more relevant than ever.
The Night before Christmas Monday 16 December, 1pm Saturday 28 December, 1pm Courtyard Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
It’s the night before Christmas and Elf 30046 falls down Carol’s chimney and they both tumble into a bigger adventure than they could have ever imagined. Will Elf ever do as he’s told? Will Carol learn to have fun? More importantly, can they find Father Christmas before it’s too late?
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Audio Described
Performances
The Wizard of Oz Tuesday 14 December, 1.30pm Thursday 16 January, 7pm Quarry Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
Let Leeds Playhouse whisk you away on an unforgettable journey inside our newly refurbished theatre. Join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion as the classic story and the songs you know and love burst on to the stage in this technicolour spectacular!
Northern Ballet presents Cinderella Saturday 21 December, 2pm Touch tour, 11.30am Leeds Grand Theatre Audio Description: Vocaleyes
Escape into an enchanting winter wonderland. You won’t believe your eyes as Northern Ballet bring their signature magic to the ultimate feel-good fairytale - the perfect entertainment for the whole family.
““Back in the land of the living” is what I said after seeing my
first accessible ballet. The touch tour on stage, the unique
workshop and the audio description are all vital elements to
help me attend the theatre, even after being registered blind"
Audio Described Performance booker at Northern Ballet
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British Sign Language
Performances
My Beautiful Laundrette Saturday 19 October, 2.30pm Courtyard Theatre, Leeds Playhouse Signer: tbc
Set in London during the Thatcher years, young British Pakistani, Omar, transforms his Uncle’s laundrette into a thriving business. After being confronted by a facist gang, he recognises his school-friend Johnny and uses their history to diffuse the situation.
There Are No Beginnings Wednesday 16 October, 8pm Bramall Rock Void, Leeds Playhouse Signer: tbc
Between the years of 1975 and 1980 the women of Leeds lived in fear. With no clue as to who was responsible for the sustained attacks and murders across the city, the authorities urged women to stay at home. From the fear and fury, a steadfast solidarity arose, birthing the Reclaim the Night movement and echoing down the generations to this day.
Opera North presents
La bohème Saturday 26 October, 2:30pm Signer: Paul Whittaker
On a cold Christmas night in bohemian Paris, Mimì knocks on Rodolfo’s door in search of a candle light and a love is sparked that changes their lives forever. But can this love survive the harsh winter?
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British Sign Language
Performances
The King and I Saturday 2 November, 2.30pm Leeds Grand Theatre Interpreter Nicola Williams
One of the greatest musicals from the golden age of musicals – adored by the public and critics alike - with one of the finest scores ever written including; Whistle a Happy Tune, Getting to Know You, and Shall We Dance. This production features a company of over 50 world-class performers and a full-scale orchestra.
We Will Rock You Wednesday 13 December, 2.30pm Leeds Grand Theatre Interpreter: Donna Ruane
The worldwide smash hit musical by Queen and Ben Elton returns to the UK. The multi-million-pound show dazzles all the senses in breath-taking style. Brian May said: “This is a stunning state-of-the art new-look production of WWRY - but of course the original story is now more relevant than ever.
The Night before Christmas Saturday 30 November – Saturday 28 December, 1pm & 4.30pm Courtyard Theatre, Leeds Playhouse All shows have integrated sign
It’s the night before Christmas and Elf 30046 falls down Carol’s chimney and they both tumble into a bigger adventure than they could have ever imagined. Will Elf ever do as he’s told? Will Carol learn to have fun? More importantly, can they find Father Christmas before it’s too late?
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British Sign Language
Performances
The Wizard of Oz Tuesday 26 November, 7pm Saturday 21 December, 1.30pm Thursday 9 January, 1.30pm Quarry Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
Let Leeds Playhouse whisk you away on an unforgettable journey inside our newly refurbished theatre. Join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion as the classic story and the songs you know and love burst on to the stage in this technicolour spectacular!
Sleeping Beauty Thursday 12 December, 6.30pm Carriageworks Theatre
Set in a magical castle deep in the forest, a beautiful
sleeping Princess cursed by a wicked fairy awaits her
rescue. Featuring spellbinding special effects, stunning
costumes and magical scenery to transport you to
panto land, Sleeping Beauty guarantees to be the
perfect festive treat for all the family.
“Our daughter loves going to the theatre and with her being deaf it
is great that you have signed shows so she can enjoy it to the
fullest”
BSL Performance booker at Leeds Playhouse
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Captioned Performances
My Beautiful Laundrette Wednesday 23 October, 7.45pm Courtyard Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
Young British Pakistani, Omar, transforms his Uncle’s run-down laundrette into a thriving business. After being confronted by a fascist gang, Omar recognises school-friend Johnny and uses their history to diffuse the situation. As they renovate the laundrette together, love blossoms between them.
There Are No Beginnings Friday 25 October, 8pm Bramall Rock Void, Leeds Playhouse
Between the years of 1975 and 1980 the women of Leeds lived in fear. With no clue as to who was responsible for the sustained attacks and murders across the city, the authorities urged women to stay at home. From the fear and fury, a steadfast solidarity arose, birthing the Reclaim the Night movement and echoing down the generations to this day.
Barbershop Chronicles Friday 22 November, 7:45pm Courtyard Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
A thousand stories. Newsroom, political platform, local hotspot, confession box, preacher-pulpit and football stadium. For generations, African men have gathered in barber shops to discuss the world. These are places where the banter can be barbed and the truth is always telling.
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Captioned Performances
The Night before Christmas Thursday 19 December, 10.30am, and 1pm Courtyard Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
It’s the night before Christmas and Elf 30046 falls down Carol’s chimney and they both tumble into a bigger adventure than they could have ever imagined. Will Elf ever do as he’s told? Will Carol learn to have fun? More importantly, can they find Father Christmas before it’s too late?
The Wizard of Oz Monday 20 December, 7pm Wednesday 8 January, 7pm Quarry Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
Let Leeds Playhouse whisk you away on an unforgettable journey inside our newly refurbished theatre. Join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion as the classic story and the songs you know and love burst on to the stage in this technicolour spectacular!
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Relaxed Performances
Northern Ballet presents Little Red Riding Hood Friday 1 & Saturday 2 December, 11am Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre
Filled with mayhem, laughter and adventure, Retelling the classic fairytale with a Northern Ballet twist, Little Red Riding Hood is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre.
Sleeping Beauty Thursday 5 December, 2pm Sunday 29 December, 2pm Carriageworks Theatre
Set in a magical castle deep in the forest, a beautiful
sleeping Princess cursed by a wicked fairy awaits her
rescue. Featuring spellbinding special effects, stunning
costumes and magical scenery to transport you to panto
land, Sleeping Beauty guarantees to be the perfect
festive treat for all the family.
The Wizard of Oz Thursday 5 December, 12.30pm Quarry Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
Let Leeds Playhouse whisk you away on an unforgettable journey inside our newly refurbished theatre. Join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion as the classic story and the songs you know and love burst on to the stage in this technicolour spectacular!
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Dementia Friendly Performances
Opera North present La bohème Thursday 24 October, 2.30pm Leeds Grand Theatre
On a cold Christmas night in bohemian Paris, Mimì knocks on Rodolfo’s door in search of a candle light and a love is sparked that changes their lives forever. But can this love survive the harsh winter?
The Wizard of Oz Tuesday 14 January, 12.30pm Quarry Theatre, Leeds Playhouse
Let Leeds Playhouse whisk you away on an unforgettable journey inside our newly refurbished theatre. Join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion as the classic story and the songs you know and love burst on to the stage in this technicolour spectacular!
“This is the first time we have arranged a trip to a Relaxed
Performance and I have been amazed at the enthusiasm from
our parents and children for this event. I am also very pleased
with how the Playhouse has responded to our attending and
the flexibility on tickets, and the discount.”
Relaxed Performance group booker at Leeds Playhouse
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Venues & Organisations
Carriageworks Theatre
Booking Information
Website: www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Box Office: 0113 376 0318
Address: Carriageworks Theatre, The Electric Press,
Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD
Accessible toilets: Situated on all levels of the building
Wheelchair spaces: 9 spaces in the Main Auditorium, 8 on level 1 and 1
on level 2. 4 spaces in The Studio
Sound amplification: Induction loop system installed
Access from street to seat: Lift access to all levels of the Main Auditorium
and The Studio from either the Millennium Square or Great George
Street entrance to the Electric Press. Some seats require a few steps up
or down. Flat route: Lift access to all levels of the Main Auditorium and
The Studio from either the Millennium Square or Great George Street
entrance to the Electric Press
Guide dogs: Welcome in the auditorium. A bowl of water can be
provided on request.
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Venues & Organisations
City Varieties
Booking Information
Website: www.cityvarieties.co.uk
Email: [email protected] or
Box office: 0113 243 0808
Administration: 0113 391 7783
Address: City Varieties Music Hall, Swan
Street, Leeds, LS1 6LW
Accessible toilets: Situated on stalls and circle level
Wheelchair spaces: 8 in total. 4 on stalls, 2 on circle and 2 on upper circle
Sound amplification: Induction loop system installed. Please ask box
office staff when booking for advice on the best seats to use this service.
Access from street to seat: Lift access to all three levels of the auditorium
from the box office entrance on Swan Street
Flat route: Lift access to all three levels of the auditorium from the
box office entrance on Swan Street
Guide dogs: Welcome in the auditorium.
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Venues & Organisations
Leeds Grand Theatre
Booking Information
Website: www.leedsgrandtheatre.com
Email: [email protected] or
Box office: 0844 848 2700
Administration: 0113 297 7042
Address: Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New
Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ
Accessible toilets: Situated on stalls and dress circle level
Wheelchair spaces: 10 in total. 6 on stalls, and 4 on dress circle
Sound amplification: Infra-red system in operation. Headsets are available
from foyer for a £5 refundable deposit. Please ask box office staff when
booking for advice on the best seats to use this service.
Access from street to seat: 6 steps from street to foyer and then lift access
to most of auditorium (excluding upper balcony) from foyer. Some areas
of the auditorium do have steep stairs and may not be suitable for people
with limited mobility. Please ask box office if you have any concerns
Flat route: Wheelchair lift from box office to foyer and then lift access to
most of auditorium (excluding upper balcony) from foyer
Guide dogs: Welcome in the auditorium. A bowl of water can be
provided on request
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Venues & Organisations
Leeds Playhouse
Booking Information
Website: www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk
Email: [email protected] or
Box office: 0113 213 7700
Textphone dial 18001 then 0113 213 7700
Address: Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square,
Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UP
Temporary box office address (2018/19): 19
Eastgate, Leeds, LS2 7LY
During our redevelopment in 2018-19 we are transforming one of our
workshops here on site to create a unique 350 seat Pop-Up theatre and a
home for an ensemble company of actors who will join us for the year.
See the map above for how to find us.
We have a range of facilities to meet people's requirements including
level access from Front of House Area to Rows A and B in the Pop-Up
theatre, and to the accessible toilets.
Please contact box office on 0113 213 7700 for more information about
our facilities during this time.
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Venues & Organisations
Northern Ballet
Booking Information
Website: www.northernballet.com
Email: [email protected] or
Box office: 0113 220 8008
Administration: 0113 220 8000
Address: Northern Ballet, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7PA
Audio described performances are preceded by a free Touch Tour Insight,
which introduces elements of the production to aide visually impaired
patrons in their understanding of the show. They can hear a description of
the scenery, feel the props and costumes and discover the shapes and
quality of the movement from the ballet with the aid of Company dancers.
Northern Ballet also has a purpose-built studio theatre in Leeds City
Centre, the Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre, which is fully accessible to
those with disabilities. The building has accessible toilet facilities, a
hearing loop in the foyer and an infrared hearing system in the studio
theatre.
The Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre
Accessible toilets: Situated in the foyer outside the auditorium
Wheelchair spaces: At least 2 spaces in the auditorium
Sound amplification: Hearing loop in foyer. Infrared hearing system in
the auditorium
Access from street to seat: Flat access through foyer to auditorium
Guide Dogs: Welcome throughout the building, including the auditorium
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Venues & Organisations
Opera North
Booking Information
Website: www.operanorth.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Box Office: 0113 22 33 600
Access Officer: 0113 223 3629
Temporary address: 2C, The Gateway East, Marsh
Lane, Leeds LS9 8AU
Opera North is an award-winning national opera company based in Leeds
and touring throughout the North of England, inspiring audiences,
engaging communities and challenging preconceptions.
All the theatres we tour to are accessible spaces. For more details on
the accessibility of individual theatres, please visit the individual venue
websites. In Leeds, we perform in Leeds Grand Theatre (see above),
the Howard Assembly Room (see below) and Leeds Town Hall.
All operas sung in a foreign language, and some sung in English, have
surtitles displayed on screens each side of the stage – see our website
for specific details about each show.
For all our productions, we provide audio notes for blind and partially-
sighted customers describing the set, the costumes, the synopsis and
cast list. These are available to listen to on our website from the opening
night of each production.
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Venues & Organisations
Howard Assembly Room
Booking Information
Website: www.operanorth.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Box Office: 0113 22 33 600
Access Officer: 0113 223 3629
Address: Opera North, 46 New Briggate,
Leeds, LS1 6NU
As part of Opera North’s Music Works redevelopment project, the Howard
Assembly Room is temporarily closed for a major refurbishment.
It will reopen in 2020 with even more performances, a new bar and
restaurant, and a dedicated entrance with a swish new atrium.
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Useful Links
To join the Access Leeds Theatre mailing list please email
[email protected] or call Alice Gilmour on 0113 223 3629
For more information on access in theatre please visit: www.sceneandsound.co.uk
For more information on captioning
please visit www.stagetext.org
For more information on audio description please visit:
www.vocaleyes.co.uk www.see-a-voice.org.uk www.mindseyedescription.co.uk
For more information on finding local access providers please visit
www.accessibleartsleeds.com
Access Partners of Leeds Playhouse are Irwin Mitchell Solicitors:
www.irwinmitchell.com
For accessible theatre in London visit:
www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk/access
For accessible theatre in Scotland visit:
https://www.accessscottishtheatre.com/
To view our privacy policy, please click here.