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Facilities for Visually Impaired People

There are seats at the front of each auditorium for visually impaired people. Please mention your requirements when booking your tickets.

Guide Dogs
Guide dogs can be taken into the auditorium. Please mention this when booking and you'll be offered an aisle seat, and told about any special effects that might affect your dog's comfort. Alternatively, guide dogs can be left in the care of front-of-house staff.

Audio-Described Performances
Most productions are audio-described, usually at a matinee and an evening performance. Audio description is a live commentary, by trained describers, interspersed with the actors' dialogue. There is also a 'programme notes' description, starting 15 minutes before the production, that helps to capture the atmosphere, costumes, characters and action before and during the course of a performance. Description is relayed via a discreet headset linked to the infrared audio system. When booking for an audio-described performance, please let us know where you'd prefer to sit and the number of headsets you require. Headsets should be collected before the performance from the information desk next to the box office in whichever theatre you are seeing a show. Programme notes are available on tape in advance.

Touch Tours
The National aims to offer a touch tour for every audio described production, usually before an audio-described matinee. It's a chance to visit the set, feel the props, and enhance your enjoyment of the show. The tour is free and lasts about half an hour. Please let us know if you're coming to the tour on your own and we'll arrange for a member of staff to accompany you. Guide dogs are also welcome on set, subject to an advance assessment to ensure a safe environment. Alternatively, we can arrange for your guide dog to be looked after. If you'd like to join a tour, please make a reservation in advance by phoning 020 7452 3284.

Free Cast Lists
Available in large print and braille from the Information Desk for all performances.

Free Mailing List for Audio-Described Performances
If you'd like to receive updates and booking information for audio-described performances and touch tours, please let us know which format you'd prefer – large print, braille or tape.
Tel 020 7452 3238
Fax 020 7452 3535
E-mail