Accessibility

We offer a range of accessible performances and services for visitors who are Deaf, hard of hearing or visually impaired.

The Building 

Abbey Auditorium

The Abbey auditorium is accessed via the foyer with no intervening steps. There are two spaces available for wheelchair users, these are located at either end of row H.

An infra-red system is available for use in the Abbey auditorium:

  • Neckloop receivers can be collected from box office if you use hearing aids
  • Headsets and stethosets receivers can be collected from box office if you don’t use hearing aids.

Please allow additional time for collection of correct equipment at box office and please note that the infra-red system relies on a beam of light to broadcast the signal, patrons should be advised to keep the receivers in direct, unobstructed line of sight of the systems radiators on either side of the stage.

Abbey Bar

The bar upstairs is not wheelchair accessible. There is a coffee bar located on the ground floor in the foyer. Our front of house team can arrange pre-show or interval drinks downstairs on request.

Peacock Auditorium

This is partially accessible for wheelchair users. The auditorium is located at basement level and an elevator is available. The lift (1,000mm wide x 1,400mm deep) is at the top stairs inside the main entrance.

There are two wheelchair accessible spaces with adjacent companion seats situated to the left of the auditorium. These can be accessed via a ramp with an automated door. This measures 785mm when open.

Pegeen’s Café

The café is located in the foyer of the Abbey auditorium and is fully accessible for wheelchair users.

Toilets

One partially accessible wheelchair toilet is located in the Abbey foyer.

One wheelchair accessible toilet is located in the Peacock foyer, to the left of the exit from the lift.

Feedback

Working with Arts and Disability Ireland and with funding from the Arts Council, we aim to offer the widest possible range of services for visitors with disabilities.

We are always seeking to improve these services and welcome your suggestions and feedback.

To give feedback, please email phil.kingston@abbeytheatre.ie

Seat Measurements 

Abbey Auditorium

  • Seat width (cushion only) – 16in / 41cm
  • Width between arm rests – 18in / 46cm
  • Arm rest width: 3.5in / 9cm
  • Depth of seat (while open) – 17in / 43cm
  • Height of back rest – 20in / 51cm

 

Peacock Auditorium

  • Seat width (cushion only) – 18in / 46cm
  • Width between arm rests – 16in / 41cm
  • Arm rest width – 3.75in / 9cm
  • Depth of seat (cushion only) – 15in / 38cm
  • Height of back rest – 18.5in / 47cm

 

Peacock Loge – priority space for wheelchair users and people with access needs. There are also some freestanding chairs in this area:

  • Seat width (cushion only) – 19in / 48cm
  • Width between arm rests – 18.5in / 47cm
  • Arm rest width – 1.25in / 3cm
  • Depth of seat (cushion only) – 18.5in / 47 cm
  • Height of back rest – 15.5in / 39cm

Accessible Performances 

assisted performance

Captioned Performance

We offer a range of services for visitors with disabilities including performances that are audio described, captioned and Irish Sign Language interpreted. Seats are reserved to give you the best possible experience. Please specify what type of accessible performance you are attending when booking.

Captioned

During captioned performances, the actors’ words appear as text on two screens placed near the stage. As well as dialogue, the captions include the name of the character who is speaking or singing, descriptions of any sound effects and safety announcements. If you are familiar with TV subtitling you will find it easy to follow.

Audio-Described

Audio described performances have a live verbal commentary providing information on the visual elements of the production. It is delivered via headsets during the quieter moments of the performance. Headsets are available free of charge and can be collected from Box Office. Please allow extra time before your performance to collect the equipment.

Touch Tours 

Blind or visually impaired patrons have access to the stage and set before a matinee performance to explore the geography of the space and to handle selected props, costumes and furniture. Touch Tours usually last about 30 minutes.

Sign Language Interpreted

Irish Sign Language interpreted performances are programmed for both the Abbey and Peacock Stages. Upcoming performances are listed below. Seats are reserved to give you the best possible experience.

Relaxed Performances

Relaxed performances have a relaxed approach to noise during the show and audience members are free to move about or leave the auditorium as they need.

Pricing

If you are availing of our assisted services, you are also entitled to a discounted ticket.

Our Box Office team are delighted to advise you on the discounts available. Call (01) 87 87 222 or email boxoffice@abbeytheatre.ie

Audio described and captioned performances are provided by Arts and Disability Ireland with funding from the Arts Council.

Criteria for Irish Sign Language (ISL) Interpreter panel inclusion:

  • Our panel of ISL Interpreters have a comprehensive knowledge and proven experience of interpretation for theatre. CDS Qualified/R1 Fully Accredited or Equivalent Qualification is required.
  • They are committed to the highest standard of interpretation conveying the in-depth preparation necessary for theatre-interpreting.
  • Available on a rotational basis for interpreting of productions on the Abbey and Peacock Stages ranging from 60-180 minutes.

To express an interest in joining the panel, please email phil.kingston@abbeytheatre.ie