Assisted Performances

We offer a range of assisted performances on selected dates in our Stratford-upon-Avon theatres, and when our shows are in London or touring throughout the UK.

To book for an assisted performance please see below for a list of dates, shows and booking details. If you know what you want please see our access tickets and booking section.

Sign interpreted performances

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.

When booking for a signed performance, tell the box office so that we can give you a seat where you can see the interpreter clearly or use promo code 26126 to bring up the correct seats during the booking process.

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Audio description

Audio description (AD) is additional commentary that explains what’s happening on stage. The action of the play is described through a headset by trained people so that you can follow what is happening at the same time as the rest of the audience.

We offer touch tours ahead of all our audio described performances with the opportunity to experience the set, costumes and props used in the play. Call 01789 331275 or email access@rsc.org.uk for details of the next touch tour.

More info

Captioned performances

Captioning is live subtitling for theatre.

We offer captioned performances for all RSC productions. 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. When booking for a captioned performance, tell the box office so we can give you a seat where you can see the caption box or use promo code 26126 to bring up the correct seats during online booking.

We also have handheld captioning devices available for select performances. These are a handy alternative for anyone who may benefit from captioning. If you would like to reserve a handheld captioning tablet, please call 01789 331275 or email tickets@rsc.org.uk.

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Relaxed performances

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.

More info

Chilled performances

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. This performance is for everybody and babes in arms are welcome (not walking or requiring their own seat).

More info

If you have other access needs please see our Access Requirements page or our Booking with Access Requirements page.

Supporting resources

We offer the following supporting resources alongside assisted performances:

Sonic story - a graphic highlighting the key sounds throughout the performance, and when it might be particularly loud or quiet
Audio notes - voice notes recorded by an audio describer explaining the plot of the play as well as the characters, costumes and set. The notes are also available in written form, as a PDF.
Content Advisory - detailed information on the themes and content of a show, to help audiences who require this make informed decisions and prepare themselves, or those they are bringing with them.

To find the supporting resources for each show, click on the play title below, then scroll down for the link to the 'Assisted Performances' page for that show.

Upcoming assisted performances

Pericles

The Buddha of Suburbia

Sat 2 Nov 2024

1:30PM

Barbican Theatre,

London

Captioned

Wed 6 Nov 2024

7:15PM

Barbican Theatre,

London

Signed

Sat 9 Nov 2024

1:30PM

Barbican Theatre,

London

Chilled Performance

Sat 16 Nov 2024

1:30PM

Barbican Theatre,

London

Audio Described

Othello

Sat 2 Nov 2024

1:15PM

Royal Shakespeare Theatre,

Stratford-upon-Avon

Audio Described

Let's stay in touch

Sign interpreted performances

Audio description

Captioned performances

Relaxed performances

Chilled performances

Supporting resources

Upcoming assisted performances

Assisted performances in London

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