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Audio Described

Oxford Playhouse programme audio described performances about 3 or 4 times a season, for people with visual impairments. Via headphones, a live narrator describes the action in the pauses between onstage dialogue.

They are advertised on the same page as the production in the OP Season Brochure. If you, or anyone in your party, would like to try or use audio description please let box office know when booking so that they can ensure there are enough headsets, that you are seated in the best area of the auditorium and so that they can inform you of any other linked facilities such as touch tours.


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Captioned

Oxford Playhouse programmes captioned performances 3 or 4 times a season, for people with hearing impairments. Captions are shown on each side of the stage allowing the viewer to follow the text during the performance.

They are advertised on the same page as the production in the OP Season Brochure. If you, or anyone in your party, may benefit from captioning please let Box Office know when booking so that they can ensure you are seated in the best position to see the screens.


BSL Performance Symbol

British Sign Language (BSL) Signed

A BSL interpreter will stand at the side of the stage and sign the performance.

They are advertised on the same page as the production in the OP Season Brochure. If you, or anyone in your party, may benefit from signing, please let Box Office know when booking so that they can ensure you are seated in the best position to see the signer.


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Relaxed

Relaxed performances are aimed at anyone who would benefit from a laid back environment including people with an Autistic Spectrum Condition, a learning disability or very young children who might be afraid of the dark. The atmosphere in the auditorium will be relaxed with the house lights partially on. Audience members will be free to come and go as they please throughout the show and make noise if they want to.

They are advertised on the same page as the production in the OP Season Brochure.


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Dementia Friendly

Dementia Friendly performances are carefully tailored for those living with dementia and their friends, family or carers. They're designed so everyone can enjoy the show in a supportive, comfortable and relaxed environment. Adaptations include reduced volume of music when dialogue is taking place.

They are advertised on the same page as the production in the OP Season Brochure.


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Infra-Red Hearing System

Our auditorium has a Sennheiser infra-red system which can be used to amplify the sound of the performance. This differs from a traditional loop system, which is not present in the auditorium. The Sennheiser system uses headsets and necklaces, which can be collected at the Box Office. These work better in certain areas of the auditorium, so please let the Box Office staff know you would like to use the system when you are booking. They will advise on the best way for you to take advantage of the system. The most suitable part of the auditorium for use is Rows F- T in the stalls, and Rows A - F in the circle.

Please note: Digital hearing aids do not always work with the Sennheiser necklaces. If your hearing aid does not connect to a T-loop, the Sennheiser headsets should be used instead.


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Stethoset

The receiver is worn, like a stethoscope, in the ears with the Sennheiser logo facing away from your body. Both the volume and the balance can be adjusted by the wearer.


An image of an induction loop. It is a volume control on a string, like a necklace

Induction Loop

The receiver is worn around the neck, like a necklace, with the Sennheiser logo facing away from your body. Both the volume and balance can be adjusted by the wearer. The receiver is compatible with in-ear earphones or over-head headphones that have a standard aux connection if you would like to provide your own. Alternatively we do have earphones and a small number of headphones available.