Accessible Shows

Additional Information

Captioned Performances

Captions are text descriptions that display a film's dialogue, identify speakers, and describe other relevant sounds that are otherwise inaccessible to people who are deaf or have hearing loss. The areas of the venue where the screens that will show the captions are visible can be booked by selecting the CAPTION seats.

Auslan Interpreted Performances 

Experienced Auslan theatre interpreters stand to the side of the stage and translate what the actors are saying or singing into Auslan. A block of seats is reserved for users of this service to ensure a good view of the interpreter and the stage. The areas of the venue where the interpreters are visible can be booked by selecting the Auslan seats.

Accessible Performance and Sing & Play Sessions

Sydney Opera House in partnership with Lifestart organisation and RIDBC offer Accessible Sing & Play sessions. These dedicated performances are designed to ensure everyone is able to enjoy the theatre experience in a supportive, friendly and relaxed environment. The Sing & Play session is offered in the foyer area after the performance and includes a range of fun play activities supported by the Lifestart and the RIDBC team. A supported music program based on the musical themes from the performance is also provided and facilitated by our very own Sing & Play music therapist.

Relaxed Performances

Relaxed performances are open to everyone, but with modifications to sound and lighting to be more suited for children on the autism spectrum, individuals with other disabilities that create sensory sensitivities and anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment.

Audio Described Performances

An audio description service is a live commentary of the visual elements of a performance by trained volunteer audio describers for those who are blind or have low vision. Audio description is relayed via a free headset and receiver linked to the FM radio system. This service can be booked by selecting the AUDIO DESCRIBED seats when booking and collecting the headset from the Box Office prior to the performance.

Assisted Listening Devices (FM Radio System)

FM radio system provides improved listening clarity for people with hearing loss who experience difficulty and fatigue, when trying to understand speech, because of distance, reverberation, and distracting background noise. Can be used with or without hearing aids.

Audio input or any electronic sound source feeds into an FM transmitter and the FM radio frequency signal is picked up by the patrons FM receiver. FM receivers and headsets are provided free of charge and can be obtained from the nearest cloakroom prior to the performance.

The FM system is also compatible with hearing aids and cochlear implants with a "T" switch via an induction loop provided. When the hearing aid is switched to the 'T' position, the wearer will receive the program sound through the hearing aid. FM Radio Systems are available in all Kids at the House venues.

Tactile Tour

Tactile tours allow patrons who are blind or have low vision to have a hands-on experience. Depending on the production/installation, patrons are given access to costumes, props and stage set in order to capture the atmosphere of the work. Tactile tours occur before the performance.

Thank you

Please join us in thanking our donors to the Opera House’s Accessible Performances program, including the Sydney Opera House Ladies' Committee.