Access for all
We are committed to creating memorable experiences for all children, regardless of their background or circumstances. These are some of things we do to make our work more accessible.
For children (or their adults) who are blind or partially sighted…
Audio Described Performances
Before the start of each our Audio Described Performances, we offer our young audiences a tour of the set. During a Touch Tour, children and their families will be guided around the set and have the opportunity to touch some of the costumes and objects (props) on the set. There may also be the opportunity to hear some of the key sounds used during the show.
Before the show starts, an audio introduction is provided to describe all the characters that will be in the show and accurately describes the set, lighting and costumes in detail. During the show, children are given a pair of headphones to wear so that a friendly voice can describe to them the things happening on stage.
For children (or their adults) who are Deaf or hard of hearing…
BSL Performances
During a BSL interpreted show, a British Sign Language interpreter will stand to the side of the stage and sign an interpretation of the spoken dialogue, as well as any key sounds.
Sometimes we have performances with integrated BSL. This means that the person who is signing is part of the performance, rather than to one side.
Captioned Performances
Captioning is similar to television subtitles. During a captioned performance, audience members are able to read what the actors are saying on a digital screen. Open Captioning is where the screens appear on or above the stage for all audience members to read. Closed Captioning usually takes place on a handheld device, such as a phone, so that only the person who needs the captions can read it. As well as the dialogue, captioning also provides descriptions of the music and sound effects.
Captioning can also be used where more than one language is used in a performance. It is often used in Wales to allow non-Welsh speakers or Welsh learners to access Welsh language or multilingual performances.
For children who are neurodivergent, have ASD, additional needs or anxiety …
Relaxed Performances
We welcome children who are neurodivergent or have other additional needs to all our performances, but we recognise that some families prefer to attend a ‘relaxed’ performances, in which we make a number of additional adjustments.
Each show is different, but adjustments usually include quieter sound levels, slightly brighter lighting and a separate breakout space where families can relax or reset.
We also have ear defenders and fidget toys available to borrow for anyone needing them.
Visual Guides
For every show we create a visual guide that can be shared with children and parents before they experience the performance. These guides can be helpful to D/deaf audiences and to those with additional needs who may need extra information about what to expect.
Communications Boards
Our communications boards are available outside of the theatre space and can be used to help audiences communicate their needs and learn new things about what happens during a trip to the theatre. As part of our communications information, we also have a printed timeline of events (with pictures) so audiences can find out what order things will happen in during their visit.
What to Expect / Trigger Warnings
We know live performance can be overwhelming for some children, particularly if they don’t like loud noises or unexpected events. For every performance we are able to provide a list of the moments that may surprise children (i.e. loud sounds) and details of any materials / effects that your child may be sensitive to (i.e. darkness). This also includes any topics or themes which you may wish to be prepared for, such as death or illness.
We also provide photos of the show, so audiences can see what the characters and set look like in advance. Our storyboard information also contains a photo of each scene and a short description of what happens during the scene.
For everyone…
Age Guidance for Families
We understand that bringing children to the theatre (especially for the first time!) can create some uncertainty for parents, especially when deciding if your little one is the ‘right age’ for a particular show.
To help you, we’ve created a handy guide with more information on how to make a decision about what Theatr Iolo show to bring your little (or big!) ones to next…
Pricing for Theatr Iolo shows
Theatr Iolo are committed to making theatre for young audiences accessible to all children in Wales. We work closely with the venues we visit to make our shows as low cost as possible. We also encourage venues to offer ‘Pay What You Can’ tickets to families where they are able to.