Venue accessibility
There are pay and display car parks with disabled parking close to The Central Theatre.
Wheelchair users can enter the theatre from the front entrance which has ramp access, a central handrail and automatic doors.
There is a side entrance adjacent to the Fullagers Yard Blue Badge car park for customers with mobility problems and wheelchair users. The side entrance opens 30 minutes before a performance and closes when the performance starts. Customers can not use this entrance whilst a performance is in progress.
Inside the foyer there is a flight of stairs leading to the main ground floor area where you can access the stalls using a platform lift. The platform can be used only by individuals travelling in a wheelchair or motorised scooter, subject to size and load specifications of the lift.
It is not suitable for standing passengers. For walking customers who require the assistance of the platform lift, we can offer the use of a wheelchair. Customers use this equipment at their own discretion and accept full responsibility for its safe use.
There is also a lift at the back of the stalls to give access to the balcony and Cellar Bar for those who wish to use it. The balcony area is not suitable for wheelchair users, and walking customers with mobility issues should note that there are stairs down to most balcony seating, with no hand rail.
Loop system for the hard of hearing
A loop system is available for certain performances. A loop system transfers sound directly to a hearing aid without background noise to help people with a hearing impairment enjoy performances without interference.
We recommend booking seats in Band A, rows A to N in the stalls if you're using the loop system as some areas of the auditorium have some ‘dead’ spots.
We'll need to turn the loop system off for music performances using electric guitars.
More access facilities
We also offer:
- sign language interpretation for certain shows. Shows offering this service will be mentioned in the event details online and in the theatre brochures
- a relaxed performance of our pantomime for customers who may find the standard production a little overwhelming and who might benefit from a more relaxed environment
- high contrast, tactile signs with braille panels throughout the theatre
- sales points which can be accessed by wheelchair users at the box office and merchandise stalls
- wheelchair spaces in the stalls area of the theatre (the balcony is not accessible to wheelchair users)
- strobe lighting warning notices at the entrance foyer for performances using stroboscopic lighting effects
- an accessible electronic website listing all shows and events being sold on-line and through our Box Office
- a dedicated box office team who will be able to assist you with any concerns or specific booking requirements.
Bookings for wheelchair users
If you will be attending the event in a wheelchair or have any additional needs, you'll need to book your tickets by contacting the box office during opening hours. This is to make sure you have an enjoyable experience at our theatres and can be confident that your needs will be met.
Assisted access scheme
This membership scheme is for people with disabilities who need an assistant to help them use the services in the theatres.
The scheme allows members to buy an additional ticket for the assistant at half the standard price.
Find out more and how to apply.
Venue layout
The venue is made up of a cellar area, upper foyer, first floor and second floor.
Cellar area
In the cellar area is a bar, toilets and lifts to access the other floors.
Main foyer: street level
On street level is the main foyer and the box office. There is also a platform lift to the upper foyer.
Upper foyer
The upper foyer on the ground floor has stalls, a sweet kiosk, accessible toilets and a lift to access other floors.
First floor
On the first floor there are more toilets and the administration offices.
Second floor
On the second floor is the balcony area and lift access to other floors.
