The Courtyard is delighted to announce its upcoming Audio Described performances this year.

Audio Description consists of a narrator talking through the performance or film, describing what is happening on the stage or screen during the natural pauses in the dialogue through a discreet headset.

The first opportunity for visually impaired audiences to access an Audio Described performance will be the West End production of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap on Thursday 29 June at 2.30pm.

The Mousetrap is the world’s longest-running play and considered to be the genre-defining murder mystery from the best-selling novelist of all time. As news spreads of a murder in London, a group of seven strangers find themselves snowed in at a stately countryside guesthouse. When a police sergeant arrives, the guests discover – to their horror – that a killer is in their midst! One by one, the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts.

Classic novel fans can enjoy an Audio Described performance of The Secret Garden next on Saturday 7 October at 2.30pm. The Secret Garden follows Mary as she discovers a glorious garden filled with wonders, where all secrets eventually unlock the mysteries of a newfound hope.

This Pro-Am production showcases a mix of Professional, Community and Youth Theatre cast. Audiences will be taken on an enchanted journey by this delightful tale that has charmed hearts for generations.

Finally The Courtyard will be hosting Audio Described performances of its pantomime, Dick Whittington on Saturday 16 December 2023 at 2pm.

To celebrate The Courtyard’s 25th Anniversary year, audiences will follow spirited hero Dick and his feline friend, as they pack up their handkerchief to embark on an epic adventure seeking fame and fortune.

Featuring an action-packed swashbuckling story, musical numbers, spectacular sets and costumes, an electric live band, and entertaining script, Dick Whittington is the festive family pantomime that will leave audiences feeling rich beyond their wildest dreams.

As part of The Courtyard’s commitment to inclusivity, other accessible Dick Whittington performances include: a British Sign Language performance on Sunday 17 December 2023 at 4pm, a Relaxed Performance on Thursday 4 January 2024 at 10.30am and a Dementia Friendly performance on Thursday 4 January 2024 at 2.30pm.

Audio Description is also available on a variety of films shown in The Courtyard cinema.

For more information on the facilities and events specially tailored to make The Courtyard as accessible as possible, visit courtyard.org.uk/access.