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.

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

2026 / 2027 Season Accessible Shows

A Christmas Carol 

  • Audio description will be available from Wednesday 25 November.
  • Every performance will be a Chilled Performance and have Creative Caption
  • There is a Relaxed Performance on Sunday 5 December at 5pm
  • BSL interpreter integrated events are on;
    • Preview: Tue 24 Nov 7.30pm
    • Wed 25 Nov 7.30pm
    • Fri 4 Dec 7.30pm
    • Sat 5 Dec 2.30pm
    • Thur 10 Dec 7.30pm
    • Sun 13 Dec 5pm
    • Wed 16 Dec 7.30pm
    • Wed 23 Dec 1pm
    • Sun 27 Dec 5pm
    • Wed 30 Dec 1pm
  • Our BSL Interpreter is Rachael Merry

The Turn of The Screw
Captioned Performance – Wednesday 17 March 7.30pm

Performance types

We offer different types of performance to help you choose the theatre experience that works for you.

Below, you’ll find an explanation of each type. Check individual show pages for performance dates, recommended seating, and any other arrangements.

 

Chilled performances

Chilled performances take a  less formal approach to audience noise and movement. You are welcome to move around, make noise, or leave the auditorium and return if you need a break.

The show uses its usual sound, lighting and special effects unless we state otherwise on the show page.

Relaxed performances

Relaxed performances have adjustments to the show, which may  include lower sound levels and reduced lighting effects. There is a relaxed approach to audience noise and movement, and you can leave the auditorium and return as needed.

Our relaxed performances also have reduced audience capacity. We make fewer tickets available for these performances, so there are fewer people in the auditorium.

British Sign Language (BSL) performances

We offer two types of BSL interpretation. Each show page explains which type is available and recommends where to sit for a clear view of the signing.

BSL interpreted 

A BSL interpreter stands to one side of the stage and interprets the performance as it happens. Audiences can watch the interpreter alongside the action on stage.

Integrated BSL 

A BSL interpreter is part of the action on stage, signing alongside the cast and interacting with them. The interpretation is woven into the staging and storytelling.

Audio described performances

Audio description provides spoken information about the visual elements of a show, including actions, facial expressions, costumes and scenery.

Depending on the production, audio description may be delivered through a headset or built into the performance itself. Each show page explains how it works. Headsets are provided where needed.

Captioned and creative captioned performances

Captions display dialogue, song lyrics and important sounds as text. Depending on the production, captions may appear on a handheld device, on screens or within the set.

Creative captions are incorporated into the design of the show, making the text part of the visual storytelling.

Each show page explains how captions are displayed and recommends where to sit.

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 spaces.

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. 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. 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. 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.