Aberystwyth Arts Centre and the Wardens Theatre Company took another significant step towards more inclusive theatre experiences by hosting their first Panto Touch Tour for visually impaired audiences during the Dick Whittington and the Pi-Rats of the Caribbean pantomime. Organised in collaboration with Piws, the initiative aimed to provide visitors with an immersive, hands-on introduction to the set, costumes, and props before the performance.
The Cyfle Newydd Day Centre was the first group to experience this new accessibility initiative, exploring the vibrant set, feeling the detailed costumes, and even interacting with key props—enhancing their connection to the performance in a way that traditional theatre experiences might not allow.
Gethin from Piws, who led the initiative, explained the motivation behind the project:
“I noticed that there were no Touch Tours available in Aberystwyth, despite the fact that the annual pantomime attracts thousands of visitors each year. Given that they had already introduced BSL-interpreted performances, I saw this as an incredible opportunity to further improve accessibility.
I’m extremely grateful to the Arts Centre and the Wardens for accommodating us and ensuring that Cyfle Newydd had an unforgettable experience. This pilot was an opportunity for everyone to learn, and our hope is to implement Touch Tours for all future productions at the venue.”
Building a More Accessible Theatre Scene
Touch Tours are designed to provide visually impaired audiences with the chance to familiarise themselves with the theatre’s physical elements before a show. By engaging with textured costumes, detailed props, and set pieces, attendees can build a deeper understanding of the story’s world—enhancing their experience once the performance begins.
The success of this pilot highlights the potential for increased accessibility in Welsh theatre, and Piws is eager to collaborate with more venues across Wales to continue this work.
For those interested in supporting or learning more about accessibility initiatives in theatre, Piws encourages venues and organisations to get in touch.
Photo Highlights from the Event
