Designing for accessibility: how theatre consultants foster inclusive performance spaces

In modern venue design, accessibility is no longer an afterthought; it’s a fundamental principle. Creating performance spaces that welcome everyone, regardless of physical ability, age, or neurodiversity, reflects both social responsibility and good design. At Theatreplan, accessibility is woven into our consultancy process, ensuring that theatres and live venues are truly inclusive environments where all audiences and performers can thrive.

Why accessibility matters in performance design

Theatre has always been about shared experience, and yet for too long, many people have faced barriers that prevent full participation, from navigating steep rakes and tight seating to limited access for wheelchair users or inadequate facilities for those with sensory needs.

Designing inclusively means going beyond meeting building regulations or ticking compliance boxes. It’s about understanding the full audience journey, from arrival to curtain call, and ensuring every touchpoint promotes comfort, dignity and independence.

Theatre consultants work closely with architects, venue operators and access specialists to consider how people approach, enter and move through the building.

Key elements include:

• Step-free access: Level changes are carefully managed through ramps, lifts and platform solutions to ensure seamless transitions.
• Clear wayfinding: Signage, lighting, and visual contrast help all users navigate confidently, including those with visual impairments.
• Accessible restrooms and refreshment areas: Ensuring equitable facilities that are easy to locate and use.
• Flexible seating layouts: Integrating wheelchair positions throughout the auditorium, not just at the back or front, supports inclusion and choice.

By modelling circulation paths early in the design process, consultants can identify and resolve pinch points before they become costly challenges later on.

A project where accessibility was a key focus is the transformation of Ferneham Hall into Fareham Live. Theatreplan were appointed as theatre consultants to reimagine the venue for a new generation of audiences and performers.

The redevelopment presented an opportunity to completely rethink audience circulation, seating and front-of-house flow. Step-free access was prioritised throughout, ensuring that every level of the building could be reached without barriers. Within the auditorium, Theatreplan advised on seating layouts that would provide equitable sightlines for wheelchair users and companions, while enhancing overall comfort for all visitors.

Behind the scenes, the refurbishment allowed for accessible backstage areas, including dressing rooms, green rooms and stage routes, supporting both established and emerging talent in an inclusive environment. This project highlights how accessibility can be seamlessly integrated into every aspect of theatre design, particularly when revitalising existing venues.

Designing for performers as well as audiences

Accessibility extends beyond the front of house. Performers, crew and technical teams should experience the same level of consideration as the audience.

This can mean designing backstage areas, such as dressing rooms, green rooms, rehearsal spaces and stage access routes, all with inclusivity in mind. Providing accessible changing areas, adjustable workstations and step-free routes to the stage would ensure that creative talent is never limited by physical barriers.

Inclusive technology and control systems

Modern performance venues often incorporate advanced control interfaces for lighting, AV and stage systems. Theatre consultants play a vital role in selecting and integrating technologies that are intuitive, accessible and adaptable. Touchscreen interfaces with adjustable height settings, tactile controls and assistive listening systems all contribute to an equitable working environment for both technical staff and users.

The role of theatre consultants in championing inclusion

True accessibility is achieved through collaboration and foresight. Theatre consultants act as the bridge between creative vision and technical execution, ensuring inclusive design principles are embedded in every decision. At Theatreplan, our team brings decades of experience in planning, designing and delivering theatres and performance spaces that welcome all users. From heritage refurbishments like Fareham Live to new cultural landmarks, our goal is always to make theatre an experience everyone can enjoy.

Want to make your venue more inclusive?

Speak to the Theatreplan team about how we can help you integrate accessibility and inclusivity into your next theatre project.