Overview

I've love this theatre ever seeing Miss Jean Brodie 15 years ago when moving to Edinburgh. I was interested in seeing an accessible performance as from the outset the building is full of narrow steps. Myself and a friend went along to experience Rhinoceros as part of the Edinburgh International Festival, a hour before the performance we took part in the touch tour and during the performance my friend used the Audio Described headphones, which we both loved.

Transport & Parking

I got the bus to Lothian road and plenty buses stop outside the Usher Hall, about a three minute walk to the Lyceum. There is disabled parking bay outside the theatre - space enough for about three cars.

Access

I thought the Access of the Touch Tour was great, there was small steps and narrow staircases to watch out for, not sure how they overcome this with wheelchair users. In saying that the tour was very relaxed and were really good in telling you where trip hazards where and to take your time - it didn't feel rushed! On the touch tour we were all meet and everyone introduced themselves so we knew straightaway who the point of contact would be. We were taken backstage and up onto the stage receiving a beautiful empty view of the theatre and once there, the stage and surroundings where explained in great detail. We then got the opportunity to touch some of the objects - everyone wanted to stroke the beautiful cat and the stuffed teddy. It was mentioned that clay would be used during the performances, and we even got an chance to feel the sticky clay, they even had wet wipes so your hands didn't stay sticky! The tour lasted about 20 minutes - afterwards we were explained the audio described process and how it works. There would be a 15 minute test before and ten minutes before the show started there was a thorougher description of the stage set up. We were in the front row so leg room was good. There is a lot of low level steps in the theatre, but entrance and box office is accessible.

Toilets

I did not use the accessible loo. One thing is is the mens toilets are up three narrow steps with really heavy doors and every time I use those stairs I think I'm going to go flying down the steps.

Staff

Brilliant, friendly, patient and the audio describers where absolutely brilliant and knew exactly what they were doing. The ushers were patient and took their time too.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

The performance itself was great, really funny and thought provoking. The theatre was really accommodating and I really enjoyed the very special experience!

Photos