Access for All in 2013 and Christmas Wishes

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You for your continued support for Access for All to the Arts. 2013 is drawing to a close and I've been thinking back over the past year to issues surrounding Access in our arts venues. There have been so many positive things happen, yet still so much needs to change before our venues really are Accessible to All. A charity who I follow on Twitter, called Stage Text, has been working tirelessly with theatres nationwide to bring captioned performances to the theatres. Many have yet to put on captioned performances but thanks to the hard work of charities like Stage Text, many more captioned performances are appearing. I will in fact be looking closer at captioned performances at the beginning of 2014. Theatres have continued to work on their physical Access, many now providing more dedicated wheelchair spaces and a larger option of seats for those transferring. Venues such as the Royal Albert Hall have improved dramatically on their communication and disability awareness in their box office...the physical Access options may still need work in this venue but staff now seem much more tuned in to the options available and which seats/spaces would be best for patrons with Access needs. Here's to many more continued improvements in 2014

And now...Christmas. I say this with some trepidation as I realise that, although for many, Christmas is an exciting, magical and special time of year...for many, it can be the complete opposite. I've had many messages over the last month or so from readers struggling with the time of year, some of you I'm told will be spending it in hospital, hospices or will have just left hospital. Others, may be suffering with the isolation that comes with certain disabilities. I want to thank you all for sending those messages, I know it's hard to reach out and although we all have our own situations, I just wanted to say that, I do understand and empathise with these feelings. Access London is very fortunate to have the support of many actors, singers and dancers and I am grateful to each and every one of them. I've put together a few messages that some of them have kindly sent me to show you all that the support for Access issues is there and it's there in spades. There may be venues that aren't playing ball right now with their Access policies but we mustn't feel defeated and instead fight on, especially with such fantastic support behind us. On a personal note, I want to take this opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to EVERYONE who contributed to this post and to those who continue to support Access for All, it really does make all the difference. See you in 2014!

Michael Xavier: "Sending all who follow Access London my very best wishes for a lovely Christmas and a very happy new year. It means the world to me that everyone gets the opportunity to experience not only theatre, but all forms of entertainment, as equals. Thank you Access London. x" Michael has recently announced that he has been cast as Sid Sorokin in Chichester Festival Theatre's West End transfer of The Pajama Game, previews starting from 1st May 2014 at the Shaftesbury Theatre. To keep up to date with all his news, you can follow Michael on Twitter @michaelxavierUK

Sofia Escobar: "I'd like to wish all readers of Access London a wonderful and magical Christmas! May you all have a beautiful day, surrounded by loved ones. After all, nothing is more important than sharing life with the people we love. Merry Christmas and may 2014 bring you all you wish for. Sofia x" Sofia recently finished her run as Christine at Phantom of the Opera after playing the role for 3 years. You can keep up to date with all of Sofia's news by following her on Twitter @sofia_escobar

Scott Davies: "Dear All, On behalf of myself and everyone at Phantom of the Opera, we wish you all a happy and healthy Christmas and lots of love for 2014. Scott Davies xx" Scott is currently contracted as Standby Phantom at Phantom of the Opera.

Joanna Loxton: "Wishing everyone at Access London a wonderful Christmas and a bright and prosperous new year. Thanks for the amazing work you are doing, it makes a real difference to those who need it! Much love to all. Jo xx" Jo was in the cast of Dear World, at the Charing Cross Theatre, earlier this year. To keep up to date with all of her news, follow her on Twitter @Joloxton

Chris Jenkins: "Merry Christmas and a happy new year to Claire and all her Access for All readers. Here's to another year of great theatre for Everyone." Chris is currently in Spamalot at The Playhouse theatre. You can keep up to date with all his news on his website www.chris-jenkins.co.uk . Or on his Twitter account @chrisjenko

Richard Halton: "To you, the loyal readership of Access for All, I extend my best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy, healthy and prosperous new year" Richard is a singer and vocal coach, working with many great West End singers. You can keep up to date with all of his news via his Twitter @richiehalton

Claire Cook: "Wishing all readers of Access London much love for the festive season and best wishes for a happy new year! x" Claire is the Dance Captain at the Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre. To keep up to date with all of Claire's news, you can follow her on Twitter @CookClaire

Danny Whitehead: "Ever since I heard about 'Access for All' I have been a huge admirer and supporter of its aims, objectives and of the fantastic work they do. It's such an important issue that's very close to my heart, and after the recent traumatic events at London's Apollo Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, it highlights even more the need for investment to maintain the up keep of all theatres and arts venues, and to make sure they are accessible and safe for everyone to enjoy. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!!!" Danny is currently in Jack and the Beanstalk at The Broadway Theatre in Barking. You can keep up to date with all his news by following him on Twitter @DannyWhitehead_

Nicola Foxfield: "The show is always for the audience and that means their needs come first. I'm very fortunate this year in that the venue I'm performing in over the Christmas period is a very inclusive theatre (London theatres take note!) and we have groups with a variety of disabilities attending nearly every show, which quite frankly is the way it should be! I couldn't imagine not being able to see any show I wanted, so hats off to Claire and all who are working hard to help make London's theatres accessible to all. Merry Christmas everyone and here's to a wonderful new year!" Nicola is currently playing 'Dick' in Dick Wittington at the Bedworth Civic Hall, Warwickshire and will be in As You Like It at Barons Court, from January. You can keep up to date with her news via her website www.nicolafoxfield.co.uk . Or follow her on Twitter @NicolaFoxfield

Kevin Leslie: "Merry Christmas to one and all, Hope you have an amazing festive holiday, filled with laughter, joy and merriment. I'm proud and honoured to be asked to extend my support for access for London. I believe theatre should be accessible to everyone whatever the obstacle, so it brings a smile to my face when I see people making this possible. The work is made to be enjoyed by All, so enjoyed by ALL it shall be. Hope to hear about many enjoyable theatre trips in 2014. Happy Holidays. Kevin Leslie x" Kevin was in the great production of Blue Stockings, at The Globe this Summer. His next feature film, is a mystery horror, called 'Disturbed'. He will also be touring UK theatres with the English Touring Theatre in Eternal Love, you can check out this website for dates HERE . Keep up to date with all Kevin's news by following him on Twitter @KevinLeslie88

Jonathon Gibson: "Merry Christmas to all readers and supporters of Access London. Theatre means everything to me. It brings me so much enjoyment, whether I'm on the stage or in the audience. Everyone should have the right and ability to experience the magic of theatre and I strongly support the work of Access London. I wish you all a fantastic festive season and here's to a happy and healthy 2014. Much love, Jonathon xxx" Jonathon is currently appearing in Jack and the Beanstalk at the Assembly Rooms in Derby, until 5th January. To keep up to date with all of his news, check out his website www.jonathongibson.com . You can also follow him on Twitter @JonGibsonActor

Cameron Jack: "Happy Christmas to all at Access London! Keep up the good work there. It's important that there are organisations like Access, making a difference all year round. Cameron Jack x" Cameron is an actor and director and has made many television performances this year and was also in the feature film, Wandering Rose. His theatre performances this year include The Life Of Stuff. He has also directed productions at the Broadway Theatre in Catford. You can keep up to date with his news by following him on Twitter @rentathug

Dan and Laura Curtis: "We would like to wish all the readers of Access London a Christmas full of love and happiness. Access in the Arts is so very important and what you do makes such a big difference to people's lives. From working in a theatre for many years, I have seen significant changes for the better but so much more can be done. Thank you for everything you are doing and all the very best for 2014." Dan and Laura are award winning composers. Among their many current and future projects, includes the Richard Burton Musical. You can keep up to date with all their news via their website www.danandlauracurtis.com . You can also follow them on Twitter @DanLauraCurtis

Merry Christmas from Access London

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for helping to support Access for All to the Arts. Firstly, Merry Christmas to all the readers and supporters and here's to more changes and improvements to Access in 2013. 2012 has seen many positive changes and feedback from theatres and arts venues on Access. This includes the Royal Albert Hall who do have some serious issues to look at in terms of physical access as well as communication. However, they've made a positive start on it this year after many of the issues raised by Access London have been looked at and I thank you all for sending me stories of your experiences there. I am hopeful things will continue to improve in 2013. Other Arts venues continue to improve their already excellent Access lists and schemes including, Southbank Centre, The Barbican and The National and I hope that some of these ideas can one day be transferred to West End theatres/groups. Thank you once again to everyone who sends in feedback of theatres and venues you've visited and their Access, whether good or bad.

As passionate as I am about Access London and the issues it raises and fights for, I couldn't do it without the support of singers, actors and dancers who give their time and show support for what Access London aims to achieve. Below are Christmas messages from some who have been amazing with their support and I'd like to take this opportunity to again thank every single one of them, it really is much appreciated. To the readers, I hope you enjoy reading the messages as much as I did. Merry Christmas Everyone. x

Michael Xavier: "Sending lots of love and Christmas cheer to all those who support Access London. Thank you for your efforts and may 2013 be a lucky year for you all. x" Michael is currently playing Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly! at the Leicester Curve until the 19th January 2013. To book tickets, see their website www.curveonline.co.uk . You can follow Michael on Twitter @michaelxavierMX

Rebecca Caine: "One of my New Year resolutions is not to take anything for granted. The fact I am able to see any show I want is something I never thought about until I realised that many venues are not accessible to disabled people. Something that is so easy for me and gives me such joy should be accessible to everyone. Thankyou Claire for all your work in this area. And let's hope that 2013 sees more and more venues making sure that theatre is accessible to everyone." You can keep up to date with all of Rebecca's concerts for 2013 on her website www.rebeccacaine.com . You can also follow her on Twitter @RebeccaCaine

Nick Wyschna: "Happy Christmas to all readers and supporters of Access London from all of us at Guildford Fringe Theatre Company. It's a pleasure to be associated with Claire and I pledge our support in any way we can in the coming years. Much love, Nick Wyschna." You can keep up to date with Guildford Fringe's shows and news by signing up to their newsletter HERE . Or check out their website www.guildfordfringe.com . You can also follow Nick on Twitter @NickWyschna

AJ Callaghan: "Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Please spread the festive cheer and remember those less fortunate with a simple gesture of buying someone, cold and alone, a hot drink and a sandwich and don't forget our four legged friends by donating a can of food to an animal rescue centre. It's the small gestures that make Christmas special." AJ is currently in Les Miserables at Queens Theatre, London and covers the role of Fantine. Her next Fantine dates are the 11th and 12th January 2013. To book Access tickets for Les Miserables, call the Access line on 0844 482 5137. You can also follow AJ on Twitter @AJCallaghan1

Will Barratt: "Very Merry Christmas to all the readers of Access London. Thank you for enjoying and supporting the arts, as I fully support Access for All. x" Will was part of the cast of Sweeney Todd at The Adelphi this year. To keep up to date with his news and projects, follow him on Twitter @willbarratt83

Jo Loxton: "Wishing everyone at Access London a fantastic Christmas and wonderful new year and here's to more support for Accessible Theatre in 2013! Much Love xxx" Jo will be joining the cast of Dear World as it makes its UK Premiere at the Charing Cross Theatre from the 4th February 2013. For tickets, visit their website www.charingcrosstheatre.co.uk . You can also follow Jo on Twitter @Joloxton

Chris Jenkins: "Huge Season's Greetings to Claire and all her lovely readers. Eat, Drink and be Happy!" Chris is currently performing in Spamalot at the Playhouse Theatre in London. To book Access tickets to see Spamalot, call the Access line on 0844 871 7677. You can follow Chris on Twitter @chrisjenko

Sofia Escobar: "Christmas is a magical time, a time for love, for family, for music and all round happiness! I wish you all a wonderful Christmas filled with joy and sparkles!" Sofia is currently playing Christine Daae in Phantom of the Opera. To book Access tickets to Phantom, call the Access line on 08444 124648. You can also follow Sofia on Twitter @sofia_escobar

Lee Bowen: "Wishing everyone involved and all readers of Access London a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Let's make 2013 an even bigger year for Access London, and push out the message that theatre is for everyone, and we all have the right to enjoy the rich variety of the arts." Lee will be playing Mr Upfold in Benjamin Britten's Albert Herring during Britten's centenary year and celebrations in 2013 with Mid Wales Opera that will be touring to London. You can follow Lee on Twitter @LeeBowenTenor

John Owen-Jones: "To all at Access London....Nadolig Llawen! JOJ" For details of John's concerts in 2013, see his website HERE . John's newly released single 'May Each Day' can also be purchased from HERE . You can follow John on Twitter @johnowenjones

Danny Whitehead: "Dear readers of Access London, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very Merry Christmas and hope that 2013 will bring health and happiness. I am a firm believer that Theatre and the arts play a vital role in our communities and that is why I am so passionate about performing and enjoy it so much. "The role of theatre in our society is difficult to define, for the theatre has almost an infinitive number of functions". Because of this, the importance of how accessible theatres, concert halls and arts venues are for absolutely everybody is extremely high. The fantastic work Access London do in highlighting this fact to theatres and venues is something that is particularly close to my heart as my mum and dad have worked and cared for adults and children with mental and physical disabilities for over twenty years. I have become very close to a lot of the people they work with and they have wanted to come and support me in many of the shows and concerts I have performed in, this has been getting easier to organise over the past year or so with venues improving their access and hospitality for all audience members. This improvement is down to the likes of Access London sharing information and bringing the issue of equal access to the theatre Management. I hope that 2013 is the year when all theatres realise how important it is to have Access for All! Have a fantastic Christmas!! Danny Whitehead xx" Danny was in the recent production of South Pacific that was at London's Barbican before touring the UK. To keep up to date with Danny's news and projects, follow him on Twitter @DannyWhitehead_

Victoria Farley: "As a professional actress, I understand the importance of supporting the arts, and I thank everyone who keeps this industry flourishing by their continued interest and support. I would like to believe that every person has the opportunity to participate in the rich culutural and artistic sector this country has to offer, regardless of any given disability. Earlier this year I was made aware of the Access London scheme and was shocked to realise how many London theatres/institutions are unable to accommodate certain disabilities. Learning about the scheme has given me the determination to help make a difference, and to encourage people to give some support to the people who support us. I would like to wish all readers a very Merry Christmas. I hope you enjoy some festive cheer and sparkly celebrations. I wish 2013 to bring love and support to this important scheme and equal opportunities for all. Lots of love and a big Christmas smile, Victoria x" Victoria played Rosa in The Mystery of Edwin Drood earlier this year at the Arts Theatre and is currently Wendy in Peter Pan at the Towngate Theatre. To book tickets, see their WEBSITE . You can follow Victoria on Twitter @victoria_farley

Richard Halton: "To all readers of Access London, Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2013! xx" Richard is a singer, both opera and musical theatre, and a vocal coach. To keep up with all of Richard's news and projects, see his website HERE . You can also follow him on Twitter @richiehalton

Simon Shorten: "Wishing all the readers of Access London an amazing Christmas and new year. Thank you all for your continued support. x" Simon is currently in Phantom of the Opera and is House Cover for The Phantom. To book Access tickets for Phantom, call the Access line on 08444 124648. You can keep up to date with Simon's news and projects for 2013 on his website HERE . You can also follow Simon on Twitter @SiShorten

Claire Cook: "Wishing all at Access London a wonderful Christmas and a Happy and exciting New Year! Best wishes to all, Claire xxx" Claire is currently Dance Captain for Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre. You can follow Claire on Twitter @CookClaire

Paul Keating: "Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas & New Year. I hope you get to enjoy some time off! I'm making the most of life without the '8 show week' this year and intend to gorge myself, whilst relaxing with my family & friends. Thank you all for supporting London Theatre Access throughout 2012!" Paul played the Scarecrow in the recent production of the Wizard of Oz at the London Palladium. To keep up to date with Paul's news, follow him on Twitter @1PaulKeating

Soho Cinders at Soho Theatre

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for continuing to support Access for All to the Arts. This Summer, Stiles and Drewe's production of Soho Cinders Premieres at the Soho Theatre, located on Dean Street, in the heart of Soho.

"Edgy, fun and deliciously naughty, Soho Cinders celebrates the capital’s most colourful district and is set to get London’s temperature soaring this summer. When impoverished student Robbie becomes romantically involved with engaged Mayoral candidate James Prince, his lap-dancing step-sisters become the least of his problems! James and Robbie’s worlds collide forcing them to fight for their own fairy-tale ending in this hilarious, satirical twist on the classic Cinderella story. The potent mix of politics, sex-scandals and true love come together in this contemporary musical with an infectious score that you’ll be humming long past the stroke of midnight!"

The cast includes Michael Xavier @michaelxavierMX Amy Lennox @misslenn Tom Milner @thomaskmilner Neil McCaul, Suzie Chard, Beverly Rudd @BevRudd Gerard Carey, Raj Ghatak @RajGhatak Jenna Russell, Amanda Posener, Lewis Barnshaw @LewisBarnshaw Vivien Carter, Christopher Doyle, Julian Hoult @JulianHoult23 Lewis Kirk @LewisKirk Joshua Lovell @JoshuaLovell90 Nigel Roche, Philippa Stefani @PhilippaStefani And the voice of Stephen Fry @stephenfry

"Bang in the creative heart of London, Soho Theatre is a major new writing theatre and a writers’ development organisation of national significance. With a programme spanning theatre, comedy, cabaret and writers’ events and home to a lively bar, Soho Theatre is one of the most vibrant venues on London’s cultural scene." ACCESS INFORMATION: The Main Theatre has an infra-red system fitted and 5 headsets are available to borrow from the box office. Assistance dogs are allowed into the theatre and auditorium. Alternatively, staff can dog-sit during the performance (a maximum of 2 dogs are allowed per performance). The box office and bar are on the ground floor and have level Access from the street. From here, the other floors are Accessible to wheelchair users and those with mobility difficulties by lift. The lift can accommodate wheelchairs, scooters should be left in the foyer area. Seating is unreserved for Soho Cinders. However, if you need a wheelchair space or have any other Access requirements, please inform staff when booking tickets and seats/spaces will be reserved for you. There is space to allocate up to 7 wheelchairs in the front row, which is also the most suitable for anyone with impaired mobility. All of the staff are incredibly helpful. There are also Accessible toilets on the ground, 2nd and 3rd floors. Please note that the Soho area does have some issues with dropped kerbs and not all roads have them, so allow some extra time to get to the theatre. If coming from the direction of Shaftesbury Avenue, it is best to stay on the left hand side of Dean Street until opposite the theatre and then cross over just before it. The kerb here isn't completely flat but is still manageable. For more Access information, see the theatre's Access page HERE

Soho Cinders runs at the Soho Theatre until Sunday 9th September 2012. Performances are Tuesday-Thursday at 8.00pm, Fridays at 5.30pm and 9.00pm, Saturdays at 4.00pm and 8.00pm, Sundays at 4.00pm. Those with Access requirements can get a free companion ticket at the time of booking. Please ensure that you let the box office know of any requirements in advance. To book Access tickets, call the box office directly on 020 7478 0100. All other tickets can be booked online via the theatre HERE

Merry Christmas To All From Access London

Welcome back to Access London. A huge Thank You to everyone that has followed and supported this blog and cause in 2011 - Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

With lots going on in the Capital in 2012, it should be a year to remember. Thank you for all your Christmas messages this week and emails on what you're looking forward to seeing next year. To answer one question many of you asked me in those messages: I'm starting off the new year by seeing Matilda, Pippin and Tosca (ENO) in January.

At the end of January, Access London will be holding an online auction with lots of great theatre treats, hopefully you can join in and I look forward to seeing you there - more details to follow at the beginning of the new year.

I believe I've answered most messages sent to me up until Thursday this week, if you sent me one after this day, I will get back to you shortly after Christmas. All that's left for me to say in this post is Merry Christmas and enjoy the day wherever you are and whoever you are spending it with.

I'll leave you with a few messages from some MT performers who have been kind enough to show support for Access London this year. Once again, a Huge Thank You to them all, your time and support is always so much appreciated.....


"I wish you all a wonderful Christmas filled with Joy, Love, Magic and Music! Thank You for all your love and support!"

"Desejo a todos um Feliz Natal cheio de alegria, amor, magia e musica! Muito obrigada pelo vosso carinho e apoio!"

From Sofia Escobar, Phantom of the Opera.

Sofia is currently playing Christine Daae in Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre and has extended her contract there until September 2012. You can see her perform Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday evening performances and Thursday and Saturday matinees. To book Access rate tickets to see Phantom, call: 0844 412 4648.You can follow Sofia on Twitter @sofia_escobar


"A Merry Christmas from the UK tour of South Pacific. Thanks to Access London for their support. Lots of Love and Festive Cheer to you all! x"

From Nick Wyschna, South Pacific.

Nick is currently playing Buzz Adams in the UK tour of South Pacific at The Oxford New Theatre until 31st December and then moving to The Mayflower Southampton 17 January - 4 February 2012.
You can buy Nick's album 'Lost In The Wilderness' from his website HERE
And follow him on Twitter @NickWyschna


"Nadolig Llawen to all Access London readers! See you on tour next year!"

From John Owen Jones, Phantom of the Opera 2012 Tour.

John will be playing the role of The Phantom during its 25th Anniversary 2012 tour which opens in Plymouth 27 February - 31 March 2012. He also has a new album coming out in Spring 2012. You can buy his current album from Dress Circle HERE
You can follow John on Twitter @johnowenjones


"Happy Christmas everyone! Here's hoping 2012 will bring total access to ALL theatre goers."

From Rebecca Caine, Musical Theatre & Opera Soprano.

Rebecca will be performing with the 3 Phantoms once again in February (10 and 11) at the Chichester Festival Theatre - to book tickets, including access rates, call 01243 781 312. Rebecca also has her own concert on 25 March at The Pheasantry, London - booking information to be released in the new year, definitely one for the diary although unfortunately the venue is only accessible via a flight of alomst 30 steps. If you can manage these though, please do book and go.
You can buy Rebecca's album 'Leading Ladies' from Dress Circle HERE
You can also follow her on Twitter @RebeccaCaine


"Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all you lovely people! Look forward to exciting things happening in 2012 for Access London! x"

From Lee Bowen, Musical Theatre and Opera Tenor

Lee will be appearing at Iford Arts Festival in 2012 singing Dr Caius in Verdi's Falstaff. For more information, visit www.ifordarts.co.uk You can also follow Lee on Twitter @LeeBowenTenor


"To all the Phantom fans.....Thanks for your ongoing support. Wishing you all a very Happy and Peaceful Xmas and a fabulous 2012!! xxLove Scottyxx"

From Scott Davies, Phantom of the Opera & Tosca

Scott is currently stand-by Phantom at her Majesty's theatre until September 2012. He is also currently performing at the English National Opera (London Coliseum) as Spoletta in Tosca. Final performaces are on 17, 21, 24 and 29 January. To book Access tickets, you can join the ENO's Access Scheme for free to be entitled to the Access rate, call 0871 472 0666.


"Hi all! Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year. Hope to see you at Her Majesty's very soon. Lots of Love, Jo."

From Joanna Loxton, Phantom of the Opera

Jo is currently playing Madame Firmin in Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre. She also covers for the role of Madame Giry. To see Jo perform as Madame Giry, these are the next dates that she is on: 2-4 February and 26 March - 4 April 2012. To book Access tickets to Phantom of the Opera, call: 0844 412 4648. You can follow Jo on Twitter @Joloxton


"From the sunny South Pacific to Access London and all your readers, a very very Merry Christmas to you all."

From Chris Jenkins, South Pacific

Chris is currently Swing and Assistant Dance Captain on the UK tour of South Pacific at The Oxford New Theatre until 31st December and then moving to The Mayflower Southhampton 17 January - 4 February 2012.
You can follow Chris on Twitter @chrisjenko


"Hi Everyone. Australia is great, nice to be home for Xmas! Hoping to be back in the UK very soon! Hope you all have a fantastic Christmas."

From Daniel Gourlay, Dancer, Singer, Actor

Daniel was part of the London 'Love Never Dies' cast. He is currently at home in Australia but hopes to be back in the UK soon.
You can follow Daniel on Twitter @DanielGourlay89



"For all of you who have any relationship with the fantastic Access London, have a very Merry Christmas and a fabulous 2012! Please keep going to the theatre and challenging and enjoying not only yourselves but those who create the work! Mx"

From Michael Xavier, Actor and Singer

Michael will perform opposite Connie Fisher on a 3 month tour of Wonderful Town from March 2012.
To keep up to date with all of Michael's news, please have a look at his website, where you can also listen to soundclips of him singing.... MICHAEL XAVIER
You can also follow Michael on Twitter @michaelxavierMX


"Hope you all had a Happy Christmas. Wishing everyone a healthy, bright and wonderful 2012. X"

From AJ Callaghan, Les Miserables

AJ is currently performing in Les Miserables at the Queens Theatre and also covers the role of Fantine. To see AJ as Fantine, these are the next dates that she is covering: 2-11 January and 6-8 February 2012.
To book Access tickets to see Les Miserables, call 0844 482 5137.



"Here's hoping you have a very Happy New (Olympic) Year filled with exciting and stimulating theatre experiences. May you continue in your fabulous, undying support of the arts and look forward with me, to a raft of new shows and concerts in 2012. With love, Richard Halton"

To keep up with all of Richard's news, visit his website www.richardhalton.co.uk
You can also follow him on Twitter @richiehalton

Access London Celebrates Phantom of the Opera's 25th Anniversary

Welcome back to Access London and thank you once again for your continued support for disability access and awareness in the Capital.

Today's post is a special one as it marks the first in a series that Access London is devoting to the worldwide phenomenon that is Phantom of the Opera and the celebrations surrounding its 25th Anniversary on the West End stage this Autumn.


As you may have read in previous posts on Phantom from Access London, its West End home is at Her Majesty's Theatre on the Haymarket (5 minutes from Leicester Sq and Piccadilly Circus). This has been the Phantom's home since it first opened on the 9th October 1986 and has been playing to a packed house ever since then.

The role of the Phantom was originally played by Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman played opposite him as Christine Daae. Since then, many 'Phantastically' talented performers have donned the famous mask to play the mysterious character of the Phantom and they have been joined by equally stunning performers taking on the roles of Christine Daae, Raoul Vicomte de Chagny, Madame Giry, Meg Giry, Carlotta, Piangi, the suffering Theatre Managers and other cast members.

Her Majesty's theatre, although being an old and majestic building, has put many measures in place to make sure that the show is accessible to as many as possible. There is a level entrance on Charles II Street that gives you Access into the stalls area, an accessible toilet, an usher to take care of disabled guests during their time in the theatre (including fetching interval drinks and programmes), dedicated wheelchair spaces or the opportunity to transfer into aisle seats whilst your wheelchair or scooter is stored away for you and a fabulous Access Rate that allows disabled visitors to watch the show at a fraction of the cost of a normal-priced seat in the stalls.

As mentioned above, this year marks Phantom's 25th Anniversay and to commemorate this landmark occasion, several concerts are to be staged at The Royal Albert Hall in celebration. Ramin Karimloo will be donning the mask once more to play the titular role whilst, Sierra Boggess will star as Christine Daae - both performers shared the stage together for a year playing The Phantom and Christine Daae in the Phantom sequel, Love Never Dies recently.

There are to be 3 shows of this fully staged concert: 1st October 7.30pm, 2nd October 1.30pm and 7.00pm. All public tickets for these shows have now sold out but you can still enjoy and celebrate Phantom's 25 years by watching the show at Her Majesty's that still plays 8 times a week - Monday to Saturday evenings and matinee performances on a Tuesday and Saturday. The show currently stars John Owen Jones as The Phantom, Sofia Escobar as Christine and Will Barrett as Raoul. Access London does have tickets to one of the celebration concerts and will have more posts about the event and Access at the Hall in forthcoming posts.

To book Access tickets to see Phantom at Her Majesty's, please call: 0844 412 4648 For all other ticket types for the show, please call: 0844 412 4653

For those who were unable to get tickets to the concerts or live too far away to attend, Access London is celebrating the event by sharing with our readers interviews with many current and former cast members from Phantom and some original cast members too. We will post more about the show, its background and story in forthcoming posts, so keep an eye out for them (or 'follow' this blog). In the meantime, we are going to kick off with our first interview with former Raoul - Mr Michael Xavier. Access London would like to take this opportunity to once again thank Michael for taking the time to answer our questions and help to support Access London and disability access and awareness.

AL: How did you land the part of Raoul?
MX: I auditioned for the role of Raoul whilst playing Sky in Mamma Mia and was very fortunate to get the role just 2 weeks after I finished Mamma Mia. Timing is everything in this industry!

AL: You joined the cast of Phantom after it had been running for over 20 years. How did it feel to be part of such an iconic and much loved show?
MX: It's always quite scary to play a role in a show that's been running for many years let alone a show that is so universally known as Phantom. You want to serve the story and present the character in the most truthful light but you're always aware that some people may not enjoy your interpretation. That can be tough. However, to play such an iconic role is thrilling! I saw the show when I was only 15 and never would have dreamed to have been playing the role roughly ten years later.

AL: In your opinion, why do you think that audiences fall in love with the story and come to see it time and again?
MX: The story is brilliantly universal! The notion of being misunderstood and different I believe resonates very powerfully in everyone no matter how popular you believe you are. And the idea that love permeates the heart beyond superficiality is both true and wonderfully romantic. People want to know that no matter who you are and what you look like (in this media and aesthetic-obsessed world), you can be loved. That is why audiences love it and come back time and again!

AL: Who were the Phantom(s) and Christine(s) that you played opposite?
MX: I played opposite Earl Carpenter as The Phantom (and Ramin Karimloo as the understudy). Christine was played initially by Celia Graham and Katie Knight-Adams then Robyn North and Leila Benn Harris came in to take over after 6 months. The understudy was Tabitha Webb but I did do a few shows with Rachel Barrell.

AL: What was your favourite song/scene to perform in the show?
MX: My favourite song was All I Ask Of You as it's such a beautiful melody and intense scene. My favourite scene was the final lair. However, I did love jumping through the stage from the bridge. A nice adrenaline rush every night!

AL: Phantom is full of special effects and technical elements - have you got a tale to tell of a mishap during a show?
MX: Oh probably, but my memory is awful! Ah yes, it's all coming back to me now. I used to get hit quite often with the fireballs from the phantom's staff and I'm surprised my head never caught fire with the amount of hairspray I had on! Also, I used to crack my elbow on the side of the trap door I had to jump through on a regular basis. I had some lovely bruises to show off!

AL: If you could play any role(s) in musical theatre, what would it/they be?
MX: If I could play any role in Musical Theatre it would probably be Sweeney Todd. It's so brilliantly written and has so much depth and darkness to the character which is different from other roles I've played.

AL: Lastly, do you have a Birthday Message for Phantom of the Opera and its fans?
MX: Yes, I'm thrilled that The Phantom Of The Opera is still running and still drawing in attention from around the world. It's a beautiful story and wonderful score. It is a musical theatre institution in itself. Congratulations on 25 fabulous years! To the fans, I'd like to say thank you for all your support and enthusiasm over the years. Without you it would no longer be running. You have kept a fantastic show alive! Bravo!


We hope you enjoyed reading Michael's responses as much as we did. Stay tuned for more interviews with the Phantom cast over the next couple of months.
In the meantime, if you would like to keep up to date with Michael's latest news, performances and also news about his forthcoming album PLEASE VISIT HIS WEBSITE You can also Follow Michael on Twitter at @michaelxavierMX and Befriend him on Facebook at Michael Xavier

Our next Access London Phantom 25th interview will be with a former Phantom, so keep an eye out for this coming soon.
You can follow Access London updates on Twitter by following @HorizonVA