From a young child’s first visit to a magical pantomime, the theatre holds a delight for so many of us.  However, if you have limited sight you may feel that the theatre is not for you. Perhaps you cannot read the programme, see the colours of the costumes or maybe the stage is just a blur. If this is the case for you or someone you know, worry no more, because your enjoyment of a production at the Devonshire Park Theatre can still be as good as it is for a sighted person, by using our Audio Description Service.

Eastbourne Theatres produce an Audio Brochure and if you collect one of these from the Box Office or indeed phone the theatre (on 01323 412000) to get one sent to you, you will be able to hear what is on at the theatre . The Audio Brochure will also tell you about the description times.

These are Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons for all the professional shows that last for the duration of the week. All these shows are marked with the Audio Description logo. You can also find information on Eastbourne Theatres’ web site (eastbournetheatres.co.uk), although please note that Audio Description is only available at the Devonshire Park Theatre.

Clicking on any of the images below will take you to that show’s page on the Eastbourne Theatres’ website where you will find full details of the production.

A list of the productions coming up in the next few months when this service will be available is given below.  If you are planning to bring a group of people to any of these Audio Described performances, it would be very helpful to have prior warning so that we can ensure that adequate resources are available.  We can be contacted on email hidden; JavaScript is required.

Please try to be in your seats 15 minutes before the curtain rises to ensure that you are able to listen to the important pre-amble!

Clicking on any of the images below will take you to that show on the Eastbourne Theatres’ website for more information about the production itself.

	Bang Bang Friday 24 April at 7.30pm Sat 25 April at 2.30pm
	The Kite Runner Friday 1 May at 7.30pm Sat 2 May at 2.30pm
	Malory Towers Friday 22 May at 7.30pm Sat 23 May at 2.30pm

Using the Audio Description Service is easy. When you arrive at the theatre a member of the Audio Description Support Team will be in the foyer to welcome you. It is good to arrive at the theatre about 20 minutes before the show begins so we can settle you in your seat. You will be given a headset to wear. These are very easy to use and we will ensure that the settings are correct before the description begins.

Usually about ten minutes before the performance begins, the describer – who is sitting in a box at the back of the dress circle – will begin by describing the set for you. They will then describe the characters in the play and anything in the programme that might be of interest to you. During the performance they will tell you anything that is not explained by the actor’s dialogue.

We have received many positive comments about the Devonshire Park’s Audio Description Service, so please give it a try. We are sure that it will enhance your theatre-going experience and guide dogs are very welcome.