Access Opera Performances
Specially created for those who would benefit from a more relaxed opera experience
If a full-length opera doesn’t feel like the right fit, our afternoon Access performances make coming to a favourite title as easy and stress-free as possible!
Our 2024/25 Season offers specially created Access opera performances of Donizetti's Don Pasquale and Lehár’s The Merry Widow, both in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Performed by a full cast and orchestra, these performances also feature a presenter who will introduce you to the story, characters and music from the opera. There are wheelchair spaces and extra staff on hand to help. There is also a smaller capacity to allow everyone space, and brighter lighting levels in the auditorium, giving you the flexibility and freedom to move about as required.
Whether you’re living with dementia or Long COVID, more comfortable at a shorter show, struggling to get to evening performances, or would simply benefit from the relaxed atmosphere, you can enjoy everything opera has to offer.
Dementia Friendly, open to all.
Audio description available >>
Tickets from £12.50. Free for carers. Groups welcome.
Free tickets for school groups available - limited availability, please email tickets@scottishopera.org.uk.
'Great experience. We couldn't have been looked after better.'
Audience member
Kindly supported by The Scottish Opera Syndicate and Scottish Opera's Education Angels
Upcoming access opera performances
Access: The Merry Widow
Access opera performanceSpecially created for those who would benefit from a more relaxed opera experience
What to expect from our access opera performances
- Audio description available at all Access Opera performances
- Shortened running times, including a 30 minute interval
- Afternoon start times for easier travel
- A presenter to introduce the story and characters, with The Orchestra of Scottish Opera and cast
- Additional front of house staff on hand to welcome you
- Doors open 45 minutes before the start – so there’s lots of time to get settled in
- Wheelchair spaces and extra staff on hand to help if you want to transfer
- Brighter lighting levels in the auditorium
- No need to keep quiet or sit still; you can come in and out of the auditorium during the show
- Lower capacity to allow everyone extra space
- Quiet areas available to take a break
- Enjoy tea and cake in the café beforehand!