Special performances are being planned so the visually impaired and hard-of-hearing can enjoy Russell Grant in Peter Pan, which opens at the Waterside on Saturday.
On Saturday December 15 a sign language interpreter will stand on the edge of the stage communicating each word – both spoken and sung.
Theatre spokeswoman Alison Trimming said: “The signer will have been preparing with a script that they get in advance and will watch a few performances to make sure they are familiar with all of the on-stage action.
“Pantomime involves lots of improvisation, so they have to be on the ball throughout and cannot just rely on the script for the production.
“At last year’s pantomime over 70 deaf children took advantage of the signed performance.”
Meanwhile on Sunday December 16 at 1.30pm an audio-described show will take place for theatre-goers with sight problems.
Ms Trimming said:” A describer will sit in the technical booth at the back of the auditorium and relay live via infra-red headsets everything that the audience member is unable to see.”
Before the show, there will be a ‘touch tour’ of the set, so theatre goers can feel the costumes and props that will be used in the show.
The touch tour for Peter Pan is at 12.30pm on Sunday December 16 and lasts 20 minutes.
The theatre is also working with the Aylesbury branch of the National Autistic Society to provide quiet areas for theatre-goers to relax if needed.
The venue’s season brochure is also available in large print and on audio CD. To be added to the ‘access brochure’ database email marketingawt@theambassadors.com
To book for any of the access performances of Peter Pan call the theatre on 0844 871 7677.