Mention opera and most people think of singing and music – but this is only part of the overall experience. What about scenery, costumes, lighting, direction and choreography?
For those with a visual impairment, our audio description service provides a live commentary during the show, relating the action on stage without compromising the music. As part of the experience, a recorded introduction to the opera is available in advance, as well as a live audio introduction before the start of the performance.
When you arrive at your chosen performance please make yourself known to a member of the Front of House team and they will provide you with your audio description headset.
Patrons with a visual impairment can also book onto a free touch tour – an opportunity to go backstage and become more familiar with the set, scenery, props and costumes. This aims to help visually impaired audience members immerse themselves in the world presented on stage, with audio describers, stage management and wardrobe staff present to answer any questions and share descriptions or interpretations of the space.
Please book in advance for audio-described performances and touch tours via the venue box offices.
Guide dogs are welcome at all of our venues.
Coming up...
La traviata
Theatre Royal Glasgow:
18 May 2024, 7.15pm - touch tour at 6pm
Book now
Eden Court, Inverness:
25 May 2024, 7.15pm - touch tour at 6pm
Book now
His Majesty's Theatre, Aberdeen:
1 June 2024, 7.15pm - touch tour at 6pm
Book now
Festival Theatre Edinburgh:
15 June 2024, 7.15pm - touch tour at 6pm
Book now
For more information, please contact Scottish Opera reception on 0141 248 4567 or tickets@scottishopera.org.uk.
Our Access Opera performances are also audio-described - find out more>>
Example of a Recorded Audio Introduction
Audio described resources - La traviata
A recorded interview with Thomas Henderson, Assistant Director for La traviata, as well as a recorded introduction to the costumes, sets and music, will be available closer to the date of the opening performance.
Watch Our Audio Described Films
L'elisir d'amore
DonizettiHansel & Gretel
HumperdinckCosi fan tutte
MozartThe Diary of One Who Disappeared
JanáčekInterested in getting involved?
We are always looking for new audio describers to join our dedicated team. If you have some time to spare and would like to find out what is involved, please contact the team using the form below.