Welcome
Welcome to your new season of accessible performances at Birmingham Hippodrome, including world-class musicals, ballet, comedy and much more.
We have a wide range of Audio Described, BSL Interpreted, Captioned and Relaxed performances available this season, including a special Relaxed performance of The Gruffalo for our younger audiences.
In our last brochure, I shared we had joined the Ramps On The Moon ‘Change Programme’, which is a programme of support for embedded change with performing arts organisations committed to disability equality. It’s been an incredibly insightful and valuable experience for the whole organisation. We complete our participation in the change programme in May, but our work will be just beginning.
We had another wonderful Access Social Drop In after the Relaxed performance of Robin Hood in January. Our next Access Social Drop In will take place during Deaf Awareness Week on Wed 6 May. We are keen to meet with our d/Deaf audiences to discuss how we can continue to improve our provision for the community.
Looking ahead to the summer, we are delighted to be continuing our Access provision at our summer festivals, including Birmingham Weekender. More details will be shared soon (for a sneak peek, turn to page 10!) on accessible performances, relaxed sessions, the access hub and access resources, all looked after by our fantastic, dedicated Access Team, and informed by our Access & Inclusion Advocates.
Talking of our Access & Inclusion Advocates, the group have been learning more about the different jobs at the Hippodrome and also providing an insight into how we can support our disabled colleagues both present and future across the organisation. Read an interview with Advocate Sophie on page 7.
To find out more, visit our website or speak to a member of our team. If you would prefer to book your tickets over the phone, you can continue to do so by calling the Hippodrome’s dedicated Access Line on 0121 689 1060. We have also launched Web Chat on our website, if you prefer to use that.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Hippodrome soon.
Vidar Hjardeng MBE Board Access Champion
PS. We now have a WhatsApp Channel! Follow along to keep up to date with what’s on, launching with our Main Stage first.
Accessible Performances
Audio Described Performances
We offer Auri headsets that give access to show relay and audio description. We have a limited number of headsets so please reserve yours when booking tickets to ensure you get one on the day. You are also welcome to connect using your own device if it is Bluetooth compatible and has Auracast installed.
“I’m really enjoying using Auri at the Hippodrome. We can now have audio wherever we are sitting which makes it much easier to be wherever our friends are. The sound quality is great and there are future ready features which I look forward to using as they roll out.”
Paul Hopkins, Access & Inclusion Advocate
BSL Interpreted Performances
Productions are interpreted in British Sign Language (BSL), the most common form of sign language used in the UK. We will always try to make sure you are in view of the interpreter on stage.
Captioned Performances
Similar to television subtitling, watch the script unfold on a display board at the same time as lines are sung and spoken. We will allocate you seats suitable for seeing the captions.
TTouch Tours
For Audio Described performances, we usually offer a Touch Tour before the show. It’s a chance to familiarise yourself with the set, props and costumes beforehand.
Depending on the production, we can’t always guarantee stage access. Times for Touch Tours are confirmed 2-3 weeks in advance and must be booked before the day.
Relaxed Performances
Our Relaxed Performances are open to all, but created for people with specific needs who may find the theatre challenging.
This includes people who identify as neurodiverse; have a learning, sensory, communication or mobility need; or those who need to access our BSL, Captioning or Audio Described provision. We encourage and create an atmosphere where everyone feels safe and able to react to a show as they wish. We sell fewer seats, which means more room for wheelchairs and more space and comfort.
Auditorium doors remain open throughout the performance to enable attendees freedom of movement. Certain aspects of staging are also adapted to suit the audience. The script may be simpler, bright lights and loud noises reduced, and house lights raised so the auditorium is not completely dark.
We also have calm spaces on every foyer level for our Main House Relaxed Performances and use our conference spaces for our Patrick Studio Relaxed Performances.
A Relaxed Performance pack is provided in the pre-visit email and also available on site for those wanting further assistance with the narrative.
For further information, please contact hippodromeaccess@birminghamhippodrome.com
What’s On
Waitress
BSL Interpreted Performance
Wed 29 Apr, 7.30pm
Captioned Performance
Thu 30 Apr, 7.30pm
Audio Described Performance
Sat 2 May, 2.30pm
WNO - The Flying Dutchman
Audio Described Performance
Thu 7 May, 7.30pm
Touch Tour
Thu 7 May .............................................................................................................................
MAMMA MIA!
Captioned Performance
Thu 14 May, 7.30pm
Audio Described Performance
Sat 16 May, 2.30pm
BSL Interpreted Performance Thu 21 May, 7.30pm
The Gruffalo (Patrick Studio)
Relaxed Performance
Thu 21 May, 10.30am & 1pm
Derren Brown: Only Human
BSL Interpreted Performance
Wed 10 Jun, 7.30pm
Miss Saigon
BSL Interpreted Performance Tue 23 Jun, 7.30pm
Captioned Performance Thu 25 Jun, 7.30pm
Audio Described Performance Sat 27 Jun, 2.30pm
Matilda The Musical
BSL Interpreted Performance Wed 15 Jul, 7.30pm
Captioned Performance Thu 16 Jul, 7.30pm
Audio Described Performance Sat 18 Jul 2.30pm
Mrs Doubtfire The Musical
BSL Interpreted Performance
Wed 26 Aug & Wed 9 Sep, 7.30pm
Audio Described Performance Sat 29 Aug & Sat 12 Sep, 2.30pm
Captioned Performance Thu 27 Aug & Thu 10 Sep, 7.30pm
Sylvia
BSL Interpreted Performance
Wed 7 Oct, 7.30pm
Captioned Performance
Thu 8 Oct, 7.30pm
Audio Described Performance
Sat 10 Oct, 2.30pm
Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man
Audio Described Performance
Thu 15 Oct, 7.30pm
Blood Brothers
CATS
BSL Interpreted Performance
Wed 21 Oct, 7.30pm
Captioned Performance
Thu 22 Oct, 7.30pm
Audio Described Performance
Sat 24 Oct, 2.30pm
Audio Described Performance Sat 7 Nov, 2.30pm
BRB: The Nutcracker
Audio Described Performance Sat 28 Nov, 2.30pm
Relaxed Performance Tue 1 Dec, 12.45pm
One Tiny Penguin (Patrick Studio)
Relaxed Performance Sat 12 Dec, 10.15am
Sleeping Beauty
BSL Interpreted Performance
Wed 4 Nov, 7.30pm
Captioned Performance
Thu 5 Nov, 7.30pm
Discounts and Concessions
BSL Interpreted Performance Sun 10 Jan, 1pm & 5.15pm
Audio Described Performance Wed 13 Jan, 2pm & Sat 16 Jan, 2.30pm
Captioned Performance Sun 17 Jan, 1pm & 5.15pm
Relaxed Performance Thu 28 Jan, 12 noon
We offer concessions for people with access requirements. These vary from show to show.
Please make sure you are registered with Nimbus via our Access Registration scheme so you can book tickets online and view all your relevant discounts. Of course, you can use our dedicated Access Line on 0121 689 1060 (Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, closed on weekends and bank holidays) if you prefer to book your tickets over the phone, just remember to have your Nimbus registration number to hand. You will also need to present your Nimbus card when booking in person at the theatre.
Access Registration at Birmingham Hippodrome
TRP
Our Access Registration scheme, in partnership with Nimbus Disability, provides the ability for our customers with access requirements to book online and view the best seats and discounts for their individual needs.
Nimbus Disability is a social enterprise and an organisation run by and for disabled people and is recognised as a leading authority on accessible ticketing in the UK. Registering is a three-step process, is valid for three years and is completely free.
This scheme will enable you to:
• View and book wheelchair spaces online
• Book in essential companions online
• Have easier access to the most appropriate seats for captioned, BSL interpreted and audio described performances on an interactive seat map
• View all discounts available to you online, based on your needs
How to register
For more information and to register now, go to birminghamhippodrome.com/accessregistration
If you are not able to use online forms and would be unable to access online sales, Nimbus can assist with telephone registration by calling 0330 808 5108
If you already have The Access Card, there is no need to re-register, just log in or create an account with us and submit your registration number.
Need more information?
We’ve compiled a list of Q&As in our help centre at birminghamhippodrome.com/faqs
If you would prefer to speak to someone, our friendly Access Advisors on 0121 689 1060 will be happy to help.
The Access Card
You can upgrade your free Birmingham Hippodrome registration to a full Access Card application, so you can visit other venues. It costs £15 and is valid for 3 years. You can find out more information on The Access Card provided by Nimbus at www.accesscard.online
The full card provides you with the same benefits as the free registration, as well as:
• Recognised at multiple venues across the UK & beyond
• Free companion tickets at events and venues across the UK (select venues only)
• Receive a Photo ID card with symbols relating to your accessibility needs
• Informative online access directory
• Access to a closed Facebook Community group
Meet our Access & Inclusion Advocates
Say hello to Sophie and her Medical Alert Assistance Dog, Tashi, who support each other every day to navigate life with confidence, safety and independence.
What’s your background?
I’ve always loved coming to the theatre, from annual pantomime visits to becoming a BRB annual passholder.
I became suddenly unwell in 2018, and life became very small and very scary. I stopped doing the things I loved as I wasn’t sure how to access things as a new wheelchair user with sudden and debilitating medical episodes.
Tashi and I were partnered in August 2024, and since becoming an A&I Advocate, the Hippodrome has once again become my second home and enjoying the shows has again become my favourite way to escape.
What is your most memorable theatregoing experience?
Seeing Hamilton in August 2024, as it was my first theatre trip with Tashi. Being able to sit back and fully immerse myself in the show, knowing that she was there and keeping me safe, was incredibly special.
Describe accessibility at the Hippodrome in three words Welcoming, thoughtful and inclusive.
What does it mean to be an A&I Advocate?
For me, being an A&I Advocate is about amplifying voices that aren’t always heard. It’s about empathy, curiosity and action, understanding different needs and working together to remove barriers so everyone feels like they belong at the theatre and feel encouraged to attend.
Our Facilities
Access Assistance Point
Located inside the entrance near the main doors, dedicated and specially trained team members are ready to welcome guests and can provide any advice or assistance required.
There are resources and equipment available to borrow from this desk, such as hearing assistance headsets, audio description headsets (available for AD performances only), noise cancelling headphones, fidget toys, light reducing glasses, and pre-booked wheelchairs. There are scribble pads for staff to communicate with guests if required.
Our staff can also issue Access Lanyards that highlight to our staff that the guest has additional access needs for which they may need assistance during their visit.
Assistance Dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome in all areas of the theatre, including inside the auditorium. If you prefer, our staff can also look after your dog during performances. Please book your dog in with Ticket Sales in advance of your visit. Our team will also try and make sure you are assigned the most appropriate seat, for instance next to an exit.
BSL interpreters on demand
Convo offers access to BSL interpreters through a QR code –anytime and anywhere. Scan the QR code on posters around the venue to access this service.
Hearing Assisted Facilities
If you’d like a receiver for our infrared amplification system, just ask at our Access Assistance Point. Please note that these can be used in the auditorium or Patrick Studio for a show only and are not available to use in the Front of House areas.
Wheelchair and Mobility Facilities
Automatic doors and lifts are available for wheelchair users and we have wheelchair positions both in our main auditorium and Patrick Studio. Please book these spaces in advance. Transfer seats can be booked online when selecting seats or via the access line on 0121 689 1060. These are specially designed chairs that allow audiences who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters to transfer from the wheelchair or mobility scooter to the theatre seat, and vice versa.
We have accessible gender neutral and ambulant disabled toilets on all levels, plus low-level counter service.
Box Office Counter
To enter the building every visitor needs to present a valid ticket. Please ensure tickets are distributed among your party to avoid any confusion at the doors. If you don't have your tickets or have any queries, please head to the Box Office Counter at our Thorp Street entrance rather than the main front doors. Thank you.
Car Parking and Train Travel
The closest and most accessible car park for wheelchair users and patrons with impaired mobility is the Arcadian Centre Car Park. This has bays with easy access to street level and is about 150 yards to our entrance. Another nearby car park is the Gallan Car Park. This is directly opposite our Thorp Street entrance.
Please note, both car parks can become very busy and full at times. Limited on-street disabled parking is also available on Hurst Street and Thorp Street. We recommend dropping off at Inge Street.
New Street Station is 0.4 km/0.3 miles from the Hippodrome and Moor Street Station is 0.6 km/0.4 miles.
Access at Festivals
Across our festivals, we provide an access offer so everyone can feel safe and comfortable when attending one of our free events in the city centre.
Our access offer is supported by our incredible Access Team who can be found wearing yellow hats or T-shirts. They look after:
Our access hub - an internal space where you can take a break from the festival to chill-out, pick-up resources such as ear defenders, plan your day, take part in some mindful craft or enjoy a relaxed session of our amazing programme.
Our access and information points - pick up resources and information about the festival, also available in alternative formats.
Our accessible and relaxed performances - at Birmingham Weekender 2025, we put on 75 accessible and relaxed performances across three days.
Our accessible viewpointsa designated space with seating and resources.
You! - Our access team is there to answer any questions and offer support around the festival sites. At Birmingham Weekender 2025, we helped over 600 of you!
Prior to your visit our website is full of information and resources to prepare you for what to expect.
We can’t wait to welcome you to our festivals this year!
thank you
We are grateful to our generous supporters who help to make our accessible initiatives possible.
Arts Council England, Birmingham Bodenham Trust, Baron Davenport’s Charity, The Edward and Dorothy Cadbury Trust, The Eveson Trust, The Foyle Foundation, The Grimmitt Trust, IMI plc, The Oakley Charitable Trust, The Owen Family Trust, Quayle Charitable Trust, The Reed Foundation, Richardson Brothers Foundation, The Saintbury Trust, The Sebbie Hall Kindness Foundation, supporters of our Big Give campaigns, and other generous donors.
Volunteers
Thank you to our individual and corporate volunteers at our Relaxed Performances.
A short online training session is provided in advance of the performance.
On the day, volunteers support our Visitor Experience team, helping to provide a worldclass welcome to our audiences with additional or complex needs, their families and carers. Together we can create a day that they (and you) won’t forget.
Support Us
If you would like to make a gift or a donation that offers audiences with additional or complex needs the chance to experience world-class live performance, please call Rachel on 0121 689 3070, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact
If you’d like to find out more about how you can play a part in supporting our accessible performances or volunteering at our Relaxed Performances please email us at fundraising@birminghamhippodrome.com
Some of our wonderful Access Volunteers at a recent Relaxed Performance - they wear sparkly hats so everyone knows who they are!
Main Auditorium
Please note: These diagrams are a guide and not an accurate representation of seating positions. Stalls Rows A - D are not used for Opera and Ballet performances. Other variations may apply due to technical reasons.
Due to potentially restricted views of the stage and the technical requirements of specific productions, boxes may be unavailable to purchase. They are often made available for sale closer to the time over the phone only. If you would like to enquire about a box for a specific performance, please contact us on 0121 689 1060 (Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, closed on weekends and bank holidays).
Stalls
