Theatre staff showing three young people a large, brown spell book on a touch tour.

ACCESS AND INCLUSION

Outreach team smile for a photo - Remy Lloyd (Head of Outreach), James Collins (Outreach Manager - Creative Learning) and Nadia Abdelaal (Outreach Co-ordinator)

Everyone is welcome at the Grand and we are committed to making our theatre as accessible as possible. We offer a range of services to aid those who have additional access needs, and aim to develop these services in order to improve the theatre-going experience for all. We are always interested in hearing from our patrons and discussing how else we can be of assistance.

We ask our customers to remember that not all disabilities are visible, so please bear that in mind when visiting our venue and using our facilities.

Click here to download our latest Large Print Brochure

For our latest Audio Brochure, please click here

For more information on all our access services click the links below, or contact our Outreach team- access@grandtheatre.co.uk

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES

The theatre offers a variety of accessible performances including BSL interpreted, Audio Described, Captioned, Relaxed, Chilled and Dementia Friendly performances.

Accessible Performances can be found below.

We offer free Touch Tours with most of our Audio Described Performances. These usually take place an hour before the performance begins and provide our visually impaired customers with the opportunity to interact with pieces of set, props and costume with the describer. All touch tour spaces must be booked in advance via our Box Office or Outreach Department.

Customers on our access register who have made us aware they require Accessible Performances can book reserved seating for these performances. These exclusive seats are available to book online by logging into your access register account or by contacting the Box Office.

You can reserve and purchase tickets for any of our accessible performances using your Access Register discount via our Box Office weekdays between 2pm-6pm or online 24-hours a day.

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES

2024

COME FROM AWAY

Captioned Performance SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2.30PM | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

Audio Described SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY ANNE HORNSBY OF MIND’S EYE

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Audio Described TUESDAY 10 DECEMBER 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY ANNE HORNSBY OF MIND’S EYE

BSL Interpreted WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY CLARE EDWARDS

Audio Described WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY ANNE HORNSBY OF MIND’S EYE

BSL Interpreted WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 7PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY CLARE EDWARDS

Relaxed Performance THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 11AM | RELAXED PERFORMANCE

Relaxed Performance FRIDAY 13 DECEMBER 11AM | RELAXED PERFORMANCE

Relaxed Performance SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 11AM | RELAXED PERFORMANCE

Captioned Performance WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER 7PM | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

2025

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST 

BSL Interpreted SATURDAY 4 JANUARY 2.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY CLARE EDWARDS

Audio Described SATURDAY 4 JANUARY 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY ANNE HORNSBY OF MIND’S EYE

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

BLOOD BROTHERS

Audio Described THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY MIND’S EYE

Captioned Performance THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2.30PM | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

Captioned Performance THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 7.30PM | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

HAIRSPRAY

BSL Interpreted THURSDAY 6 FEBRUARY 7.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED THEATRESIGN

Audio Described SATURDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY REMY LLOYD OF MIND’S EYE

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

AN INSPECTOR CALLS

Captioned Performance SATURDAY 8 MARCH 2.30PM | CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

Audio Described SATURDAY 8 MARCH 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY MIND’S EYE

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

WAR HORSE

BSL Interpreted WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH 2.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY THEATRESIGN

BSL Interpreted WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH 7.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY THEATRESIGN

Audio Described SATURDAY 15 MARCH 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY VOCALEYES

Captioned Performance THURSDAY 20 MARCH 7.30PM | CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

BSL Interpreted SUNDAY 30 MARCH 11AM| BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY THEATRESIGN

SUNDAY 30 MARCH 11AM | CHILLED PERFORMANCE | FOR INFORMATION ON CHILLED PERFORMANCES CLICK HERE

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

DEAR EVAN HANSEN

BSL Interpreted SATURDAY 5 APRIL 2.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY THEATRESIGN

Audio Described SATURDAY 5 APRIL 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED | DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY MIND’S EYE

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

PIG HEART BOY

BSL Interpreted FRIDAY 11 APRIL 7PM | BSL INTERPRETED |

Audio Described SATURDAY 12 APRIL 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED |

Captioned Performance SATURDAY 12 APRIL 2.30PM | CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

DERREN BROWN: ONLY HUMAN

BSL Interpreted THURSDAY 17 APRIL 7.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED |

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

CHICAGO

Captioned Performance THURSDAY 26 JUNE 7.30PM | CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

BSL Interpreted THURSDAY 26 JUNE 7.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY THEATRESIGN

Audio Described SATURDAY 28 JUNE 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED |DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY MIND’S EYE

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

GHOST STORIES

Captioned Performance SATURDAY 5 JULY 5PM | CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

Audio Described SATURDAY 5 JULY 5PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED |

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

BAT OUT OF HELL

BSL Interpreted SATURDAY 19 JULY 2.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED |

Audio Described SATURDAY 19 JULY 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED |

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

CALAMITY JANE

BSL Interpreted THURSDAY 11 SEPTEMBER 7.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED | INTERPRETED BY THEATRESIGN

Captioned Performance THURSDAY 11 SEPTEMBER 7.30PM | CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

Audio Described SATURDAY 13 SEPTEMBER 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED |

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

FRIENDS! THE MUSICAL PARODY

BSL Interpreted SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER 2.30PM | BSL INTERPRETED |

Audio Described SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER 2.30PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED |

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

BSL Interpreted THURSDAY 30 OCTOBER 7PM | BSL INTERPRETED |

Captioned Performance SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER 2PM | CAPTIONED PERFORMANCE | CAPTIONED BY STAGETEXT

Audio Described SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER 2PM | AUDIO DESCRIBED |

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

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ACCESS REGISTER

Usher checking tickets for a patron

The Grand Theatre Access Register scheme supports D/deaf and disabled patrons by providing concessions for them and their partners/companions. The scheme also provides customers with a priority booking period for select shows and the option of booking ‘recommended’ seating for accessible performances.*

Joining the Access register is FREE and easy, simply download a PDF application form here  or request one from the team by emailing accessregister@grandtheatre.co.uk.

Alternatively you can request a paper copy of the application form from the Box Office or by writing to us at c/o Outreach Department, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1DE.

Paper applications should be returned to the above address along with copies of your supporting documents, please do not post original documents as they cannot be returned.

For organisations such as Care homes or groups, please contact the Outreach team at access@grandtheatre.co.uk to discuss concessional rates with group bookings.

*Recommended seating can be accessed by customers who have made us aware that they require Audio Description, Captioning, BSL interpreted performances and Wheelchair positions. These seats will be highlighted using symbols and only available once you are logged in using the email address provided on your access register application form.

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DEMENTIA FRIENDLY SERVICES

MEMORY CAFÉ

We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy theatre in an environment that is supportive and comfortable for them. We host Memory Cafés in our Encore Lounge that feature a dementia-friendly morning of professional, theatrical entertainment and refreshments in a supportive environment.

The cafés are a fantastic opportunity for those living with dementia to experience the magic of theatre with their loved ones or carers and to interact with people in a similar situation. We host four cafés per month and welcome up to 60 people per event. The genre of music is varied dependant on the café and we try to diversify our offering to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Thanks to the generosity and support of our sponsors, the cafés are free to attend however, we do ask customers to book their free ticket via our Outreach team by emailing us at access@grandtheatre.co.uk or calling 01902 57 33 20.

For a full list of upcoming Memory Café dates or to enquire, please email the Outreach team – access@grandtheatre.co.uk

Sofie Anné and Carl McGregor singing on stage

MOTOWN MEMORY CAFÉ

We host two Motown Memory Cafés every month, providing the best of Soul, Motown, Gospel and Reggae music! The café is catered for people from Black, African and Caribbean communities affected by dementia, though anyone is welcome to attend.

Upcoming Performances:

  • Sofie Anné and Carl McGregor | Thursday 7 and Friday 8 November 2024

Places are limited to 60 per session so please make sure to book your spaces in advance to avoid disappointment!

 

Sohan Kailey dances on stage while people clap along

MEMORY CAFÉ WITH SOHAN

We have teamed up with local, award-winning performance artist, Sohan Kailey to adapt our Memory Cafés to cater for people affected by dementia within South Asian communities.

This brand new café will feature Indian music and dance from Bhangra, Bollywood and Golden Indian Cinema hits and will allow people to dance along or just enjoy the music!

Upcoming Performances:

  • Memory Café with Sohan | Friday 11 October 2024 at 10am
  • Memory Café with Sohan | Friday 8 November 2024 at 1pm
  • Memory Café with Sohan | Friday 17 January 2025 at 10am

 

We arrive with a heavy heart but leave with a huge smile. In a nutshell, it’s like being given a great big hug. Thank you so much to everyone for making this possible, it really is a lifeline.

Gwyn Tingely
HEADLINE SPONSOR
Business Club Member - FBC Manby Bowdler
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
The Steve Bull Foundation Logo
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
Business Club Member - Paycare
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
Friends of the Grand

We can’t run the theatre or any of our projects without the help of our patrons. If you’d like to make a donation to support us we’d really appreciate your generosity.

Amount to Donate £0

Clear Donation

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY PERFORMANCES

We are currently exploring opportunities to add selected, carefully adapted dementia-friendly performances to our future programme of shows in our main auditorium.

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Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is working to become a dementia friendly venue and we are always expanding and improving provisions for our customers living with dementia. We are proud members of the Wolverhampton Dementia Action Alliance and our team includes members of staff who are Dementia Friends.

ASSISTIVE HEARING EQUIPMENT

The Grand Theatre operates two hearing systems, both provided by Sennheiser.

The first is a radio frequency system that works with our in-house headsets and necklace loops. For  information and instructions click here.

The second is Mobile Connect, a system that uses Wi-Fi to transmit to your own smart device via the Sennheiser Mobile Connect App.

Simply download the Sennheiser Mobile Connect app, connect to ‘Mobile Connect’ Wi-Fi channel using password Grand1894 once in the auditorium.
Open the app and select Show Relay (to enhance volume on all performances)

For information and instructions click here

We have a range of headset options which include in-ear and over the ear devices or you can use your own smart device and headphones. Mobile Connect can be used to connect to compatible hearing aids via Bluetooth.

Headsets and headphones are available to borrow from the Box Office where a member of staff will be happy to help you find the best option for you.

 

 

ACCESS INFORMATION

GUIDE DOGS

Guide Dogs are welcome in the theatre, and if you are happy to do so you can keep your dog with you in the auditorium. When booking your tickets please ensure you inform the Box Office if you intend to take your assistance dog into the auditorium with you, this will allow us to allocate the most appropriate seating for you. Please note, dogs taken into the auditorium must be with and are the sole responsibility of the owner at all times.

If suitable seating cannot be found or if you would rather your dog not be in the auditorium during the performance due to the loud music/noises, the theatre can arrange for a verified volunteer to look after your dog on the premises during your visit, as part of our Assistance Dog Scheme.

ASSISTANCE DOG SCHEME

Working alongside the charity Beacon we operate a scheme for those who wish to attend the theatre with their Assistance Dog. If suitable seating is not available in the auditorium for you and your dog, or you do not want your dog to remain in the auditorium during the show, we can arrange for a verified volunteer to look after your dog on the premises during your visit.

Please inform the Box Office that you would like to use this service when booking your tickets. They will pass the details of your visit on to our  Outreach Department who can assist in making arrangements for you. If you are booking online and wish to take advantage of this service, please email access@grandtheatre.co.uk to discuss the details of your visit.

Please be aware that although the theatre will make every effort to arrange this on your behalf, this is a voluntary service provided by Beacon and cannot be guaranteed. We will require as much notice as possible so booking tickets in good time is advised.

For further information, or to request this service please contact us in advance of your visit by emailing access@grandtheatre.co.uk

ACCESSIBLE TOILETS

Accessible toilets are located close to each of our seating levels and can all be accessed via the lift. There are two accessible toilets located on the basement level, one in the Stalls (Ground Floor) foyer area, one on the Dress Circle (First Floor), and one on the Grand Circle lower level (Second Floor).

Please note, there are no facilities located on the Grand Circle upper level (Third Floor). Patrons seated here are advised to use facilities on the Grand Circle lower level (Second Floor), which can be accessed via the lift.

During your visit members of our Front of House team will be happy to direct you to the nearest accessible facility.

We kindly ask all of our patrons to remember that not all disabilities are visible.

ORIENTATION

Should you require we can also offer Orientation sessions to help with familiarisation of the theatre. Ideal for individuals, families and groups who would benefit from a pre-visit to assess the environment before a performance. This may be of use to customers who are autistic, those who have mobility requirements, vertigo, social anxieties (such as claustrophobia or agoraphobia), those with additional needs. Please note these are not theatre tours.

Orientation sessions are arranged around show schedules so availability varies. To enquire contact the Outreach Department by emailing access@grandtheatre.co.uk

ACCESSIBLE SEATING

We have a number of seats which are held for accessible performances. These seats can be accessed by logging into your access register account through our website or by calling the box office 01902 42 92 12. This includes wheelchair positions and seats held for the best view of the BSL interpreter and captioning units.

Please be aware that the amount of legroom varies. Generally, seats in the Stalls and Dress Circle offer more legroom than those in the Grand Circle. If you require further advice about legroom, please contact the outreach team on access@grandtheatre.co.uk.

WHEELCHAIR POSITIONS

Wheelchair seats are highlighted in blue below.

 

ACCESS TO THE BUILDING

The Grand Theatre has flat access from the street via two of its five main doors. Once inside we have lift access to all public levels, and an array of facilities to support your visit. If you require any assistance, please ask a member of our Front of House team, they’re always happy to help.

Drop off and collection before and after your visit is possible at the main entrance. You are more than welcome to wait inside while your transport arrives or family return, there is a pull in bay located in front of the theatre to the right of the main entrance and just outside the main doors there is also a drop curb.

Accessible parking is available for Blue Badge holders. Accessible spaces are located at many of the main car parks and streets close to the theatre, a list can be found on the Wolverhampton Council’s website. Parking in Berry Street to the rear of the theatre is double yellow lined. Princess Street has four disabled parking bays with a 3 hr time allowance and there are another four disabled parking bays on Market Street opposite Marks and Spencer’s also with a 3hr limit. Spaces are available on Queens Street please see the information for time restrictions. Costs for the various car parks can vary, please check with the Wolverhampton Council website for details before your visit. You can find information about getting to the theatre on the Travel and Parking page of this website.

If you are attending any of our Tours or theatre functions/events and have wheelchair or mobility needs, please let us know when you book. We are a Victorian building with steps and tight turns; we will of course accommodate you, but in order to provide the same/similar experience for everyone we ask you inform us before you arrive.

GRAND ARENA ACTIVE ACCESS

In partnership with The Arena Theatre, our Active Access groups meet quarterly to discuss our services for D/deaf and disabled people with customers and members of the community. The group meets at alternating venues for up to 2 hours and is a great opportunity to have your say about improving accessibility within the arts.

To get involved, please contact access@grandtheatre.co.uk

SENSORY PACKS

We have a number of sensory packs available to borrow from the Box Office for customers who may benefit from them during a performance or event. These include ear defenders and a number of fidget toys.

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