ABBA Voyage is phenomenal - including disabled access!

When we heard Euan's Guide Ambassador Tina had been to ABBA Voyage, we had to invite her to write a blog post for us given how brilliant the disabled access reviews on Euan's Guide are. We're happy to say Tina was delighted to contribute.

Believe the hype, everything about ABBA Voyage is sensational. When ABBA first announced they would be performing on stage as digital avatars I was so excited. However, I was also apprehensive about access, as I have not been to a stadium concert since acquiring my disability. Luckily there were some very positive Euan’s Guide reviews and after reading them I felt reassured and confident about going.

We had a great experience from booking through to attending. Things got off to a good start, as on the official website ABBA Voyage we were able to easily book our accessible seats online. It also lists the dates when there are BSL-interpreted performances.

We also found getting the Arena was easier and quicker than we thought. The nearest station is Pudding Mill Lane on the Docklands Light Railway, which is step-free. Then coming out of the station the Arena building was directly in front of us.

Customer service is excellent with plenty of helpful and friendly members of staff about. When we arrived, we explained we were in the accessible seating and we were directed to the fast-track queue, and with bag checks complete we were inside in just a couple of minutes. We were also given the option to enter the auditorium before it was open to the public.

The Arena was purpose-built and very accessible. It is step-free, with level access from the street. The only doors we came across were for the toilets. This made it so easy to get around. In the spacious foyer, there are several food counters, selling a selection of hot and cold food from toasted sandwiches and salads to curries and hot dogs, including vegan options. Compared to many venues we found the prices reasonable. Also in the foyer are the accessible and Changing Places toilets.

Inside the auditorium, there is a dedicated row of step-free accessible seats. The row was raised so provided excellent views of the stage and the two huge overhead screens. Also, it was separated by an aisle from the main seating blocks and was comfortable and spacious.  

The 90-minute show was astonishing. I do not want to say too much about the show, as I do not want to spoil anyone’s enjoyment of it. ABBA performed their hit as avatars with a live band and singers. In between songs the individual members of the group spoke to the audience, which made it feel very intimate. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, energy and joy. While it was a spectacle of technical innovation, it the great music and those wonderful, timeless songs which made it such a much-loved and successful hit.

If you would like to see more venue photos, please read my Euan's Guide review.

ABBA fans may also enjoy my Euan’s Guide review of the ABBA The Museum in Stockholm, which was a lot of fun and very accessible.

ABBA Voyage is currently booking up until November 2024.

Tags: volunteers, ambassador network, blog, 2023, disabled access, euans guide