How can my child with vision impairment get the most from a visit to the theatre?

Many theatres offer specific performances with audio description (AD), a live verbal commentary providing information on the visual elements of a play or drama as it happens. It describes actions essential to following the story and other visual information, such as the style and design of a production, facial expressions and visual jokes that a child with vision impairment might otherwise miss. The description is delivered between the dialogue of a performance through lightweight headsets. There is no extra cost for booking an audio described performance. 

Tactile tours of the stage, set and props, called “touch tours”, often happen before an audio-described performance. This allows a child to get on stage and explore the set with the describers and members of the theatre staff. 

Further information about accessible arts at UK’s theatres, museums, galleries and heritage sites can be found on VocalEyes website. 

Introductory notes may also be available on audio CD or online as an audio MP3 file or text document, which can be downloaded from the theatre’s website. The notes provide background information about the production and access information about the theatre. Contact the theatre showing the performance or check the accessibility section of their website to see what’s available. 

RNIB Specialist Advice Service Advisors can give further information on this topic