London Access Review -
A Midsummer Night's Dream

Find my other reviews & learn about my reviews here

 

ID: image of the A Midsummer Night's Dream programme in front of the stage with the text "Access Review" on top

 

General Note

This is a review of the accessibility of the theater, of the lighting/sound/scent design of the show, and a list of content warnings as a way to prep folks with various needs before they go see it.

This is not meant to scare anyone away from seeing the show. Most productions have about the same amount of content warnings and sensory warnings to go along with it, they’re just rarely explicitly written down. 

For some people, knowing these things ahead of time makes it easier to enjoy the show because they know what to expect. And, often, makes those people more likely to see it in the first place. I hope that it’s helpful! 

I am also happy to clarify any specifics, just send me a message or an email and I will respond when I can.

Also please note that I make these while seeing a show for the first time, so I may miss some cues or be slightly off as to their placement/cue line!

Theater

The Globe Theatre

All comments on the accessibility of lighting are in reference to seats in the front row on the far right

Bathrooms:

  • located to the left at the top of the stairs when you’re headed toward the theatre (sort of to the right of/behind the shop) - divided into the binary - an accessible single-user restroom is here as well

  • also located by Door 4 if you walk a little beyond it - these are gender neutral 

Other theater accessibility:

  • both theaters are accessible via lift

  • the theatre offers many different kinds of accessible performances, as well as audio, BSL, and large print brochures (all on their website), induction loop & hearing enhancers, and a Quiet Space in the upper foyer

  • if you have access needs, you can join their access scheme (I was able to be seated up front due to my access needs at a more affordable price, for example)

Click here for more information on the physical accessibility of this theater.

Light/Sound/Scent

General:

  • if you need a cushion for your seat, they can be rented at booths around the theater 

  • I did not need earplugs for this production, I think had I used them I would not have been able to hear the dialogue 

  • there are no light cues for me to note

  • this production includes lots of audience participation - the major pieces can be opted out (there will be actors throughout the audience interacting with people pre-show and during the interval, for example), but there are other moments where audience members hold things, sing, cheer, interlink arms with their neighbors, etc. If you are standing on the ground you are more likely to be involved

  • content advisory for innuendo (it’s Shakespeare) and some light violence 

Act I: no cues noted

Act II:

  • starts with a drum, perhaps slightly startling

  • loud bang when Puck comes through the floor as he puts the side of the trap door down

  • loud door bang during the bit with the many Pucks (again from the floor door)

  • loud bang when that door is closed again

  • loud bang after “Bottom’s dream” “nope!”