Types of Access Performances

Accessible Performances: BSL, Captioning, Audio Description & Relaxed

Cast provides accessible performances across the year. Our accessible performances are made for people who find traditional theatre settings hard to enjoy. When we produce our own shows in house, we add audio description, captioning and BSL performances.

If you or someone you're visiting has a disability or complex needs, our accessible performances can help. They are designed for those who find it hard to sit in a regular theatre. 

Audio described (AD) 

Audio Described performances improve the experience of visually impaired and blind attendees. As well as listening to the dialogue on stage, the customer can wear a headset and listen to a live description of the action. The description happens between dialogue. It supplements the voices of the performers in explaining the emotions and action of each scene. This will often be accompanied by a touch tour, to help audiences visualise the set preshow. 

In the Main and Second spaces, there is an infrared show relay installed for customers with hearing aids. The box office can also provide headsets to amplify the sound level.

This service is currently unavailable. Please speak to a member of the Front of House team about alternative options. In addition there is a full induction loop installed in the Main Space.

Audio described performances are marked with the symbol 'AD' on our webpage. 

British Sign Language interpreted performances (BSL)

A signed performance is the usual full production with the addition of a British Sign Language Interpreter. They interpret the show for Deaf attendees who are BSL users. The BSL interpreter can often be seen stood at the side of the stage for our BSL performances.

British Sign Language interpreted performances are marked with the symbol 'BSL' on our webpage.

Captioned

Captioned performances (CAP) which display the spoken word on a screen next to the stage like subtitles.

Captions are subtitles which appear on screens at the side of the stage and display all the words and songs in the show. If you are deaf or hard of hearing you will be able to follow what's going on throughout. 

Captioned performances are marked with the symbol 'CAP' on our webpage.

Relaxed Performance

Relaxed performances have been specifically tailored for those with sensory needs. These include people living with dementia and with learning disabilities. 

What happens at a relaxed performance?

• We keep the lights up, so it won't get too dark at any point during the performance
• We leave space for you to move about
• We have an open door policy, so you can come and go as you need to
• We turn the volume down, so there are no loud bangs or flashes of light
• We will never ask anyone to leave any performance for making involuntary noises. You may feel more comfortable knowing that you're in a relaxed environment
• There will be extra staff to help if you need assistance
• You can still watch the performance, but in a private environment away from the main auditorium

Relaxed performances are marked with the symbol 'R' on our webpage.

Social Story

A short video that will help you prepare for your visit to Cast, step by step, from entering the building to leaving.