Access

Audio Description is a form of audio-visual translation for our blind and visually impaired audience members. It uses natural pauses in sound to insert a narrative that verbally translates the image. The service is available on selected screenings and performances via the Infra-Red Induction loops which can be borrowed from our Welcome Desk upon your arrival.

Some of our performances are British Sign Language Interpreted, where a translator will stand to the side of the stage and interpret dialogue. Please let our Sales and Events team know at the time of booking if you require this service so that we can seat you accordingly. Selected talks and tours are also BSL interpreted.

On some of our screenings and performances, dialogue will be displayed above or below the stage, or at the bottom of the cinema screen. Descriptive subtitles (DS) are subtitles which transcribe dialogue, music and sound effects to allow everyone to engage with our cinema programme.

During relaxed events the main lights remain on, the volume is reduced, and we hope you’ll feel comfortable to remain inside should you need to make noises or move involuntarily. We sometimes offer a pre-show introduction to the venue and performers, signalling anything that may be big, loud, or unexpected. There will also be a quiet area nearby if you need a break.

The majority of our creative courses welcome adults and children with disabilities or additional learning needs. Please feel free contact us to discuss your individual access needs.

We have fully adjustable, wheelchair-accessible ceramics wheels, and wheels with lower seating in our accessible ceramics studio.

We offer complimentary companion tickets. We are unable to provide one-to-one support.

Courses for under 18s are delivered by artist tutors with the help of Learning Support Workers, both of whom are DBS checked. On courses where children are unaccompanied, staff will support participants in their art making and aid them to access toilet facilities and lunch spaces. Explore our Social Story to find out more about MAC's children's courses and their visit to us.