Access at Reading Rep

Our commitment

Reading Rep believes everyone should be able to access and enjoy our programme of live performances. We are committed to improving accessibility and ensuring everyone’s needs are met in order to enjoy the best possible experience, be that when booking tickets, purchasing drinks at the bar, or watching the performance. Reading Rep Theatre is fully accessible and we offer a range of access performances and services.

Dates of accessible performances, content warnings, and approximate running times for each show can be found on their event page.

Relaxed performances

We welcome individuals, groups and young families who would benefit from a more relaxed theatre environment. Typically performances will include reduced lighting effects, softer sound effects and a friendly view on noise and movement in and around the auditorium.

Relaxed performances are reduced capacity, which means we have a number of seats not on sale to allow space between the seating rows.

Our upcoming relaxed performances are:

The Importance of Being Oscar: 1 June at 3pm

The Snow Queen: 14 December at 3pm

 

British Sign Language Interpreted performances 

Signed performances are for the benefit of patrons who use sign language. During this performance a BSL translator stands to one side of the stage and interprets the script at the same time as it is being performed.

Our upcoming British Sign Language Interpreted performance is:

The Snow Queen: 14 December at 7.30pm

 

If you have any questions or specific requirements for your visit please contact our Box Office.

Performance types

 Relaxed performances include reduced lighting effects, softer sound effects and a friendly view on noise and movement in and around the auditorium.

 Reduced capacity performances have more space between seating rows for additional comfort.

   British Sign Language Interpreted performances include a BSL translator who stands at the edge of the stage and translates the audio of the performance.

Our space

We understand that some of our customers may need some assistance during their visit to the theatre. We ask that customers advise us of their individual access requirements ahead of their visit, so staff can best assist and support them during their time at Reading Rep.

We have dedicated car parking facilities directly to the right of the building which can be accessed via a ramp. We have two disabled parking space.

Whilst the outside of our building is across a number of levels, we have several ramps to enable people to move freely throughout the space. Once inside, the building is all on one level, with step free access to both the bar/box office and auditorium. Ramps and handrails aid access to main doors and fire escapes. We also have visual fire alarms.

A quick tour around Reading Rep

Toilets

Our toilets are gender neutral and we have one accessible toilet.

Mobility aids

Walking sticks, crutches and mobility aids can all be taken into the theatre, but must be stored safely with the user. If this isn’t possible, staff can advise and provide storage of this equipment during the performance. We do not have a cloakroom to store personal items in.

Hearing and guide dogs are welcome. Please inform the Box Office when booking, so staff can provide information on where best to sit. We have an Induction loop hearing system.

Seating

Row A is the only seating with step free access. Rows B – L are accessed via stairs. The seating bank does not have a handrail. Staff will unfortunately not be able to assist people accessing their seats.

There are two wheelchair spaces in the front row of the theatre. Access to these seats is via ramps outside the building, and step free, flat access once in the building. These seats are bookable by calling or emailing the Box Office.

Additional seating can also be provided for a personal assistant/companion. Essential companion tickets are available for free. These seats are bookable by emailing the Box Office.