Audio Description & Touch Tours

Mention opera and most people think of singing and music – but this is only part of the overall experience. What about scenery, costumes, lighting, direction and choreography? 

For those who are living with sight loss, our audio description service provides a live commentary, describing the action on stage without compromising the music. As part of the experience, recorded information about the opera is available in advance online, and there is a live audio introduction before the start of the performance. When you arrive at your chosen performance, please make yourself known to a member of the front of house team and they will provide you with your audio description headset. 

At full-length performances, audience members can also book a free touch tour – an opportunity to become more familiar with the set, scenery, props, and costumes before the performance starts. This aims to help audience members with sight loss immerse themselves in the world presented on stage, with audio describers, stage management, and wardrobe staff present to answer any questions and share descriptions or interpretations of the space.
Guide dogs are welcome at all of our venues. 


'To attend with my guide dog, be on stage to “see” costumes and props, to hear the amazing orchestra and singing and to have the audio description describe every nuance was captivating. Thank you!'
- Audience member after the touch tour for La traviata in 2024

To learn more about our audio-described performances and touch tours, or if you need help with your booking, click the button below:
contact us

Listen to an introduction to La bohème, including a synopsis, information on sets, cast, costumes, music, and an interview with Second Assistant Director Iona Boyd:

Listen to recorded introductions to previous productions on Bandcamp>>