Richmond Theatre & Three Phantoms Tour

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for continuing to support Access for All to the Arts. Many people have been sending me messages requesting Access and booking details for the Three Phantoms Autumn tour which started this week in Canterbury, at the Marlowe Theatre. It is an extensive 10 week tour and covers many venues so I've made the decision to give detailed Access information for the tour's London stop at Richmond Theatre. As many of you are based around the UK, I've found the Access booking links or phone numbers to the other venues for you. It's a great show and I urge you all to go and watch!

Three Phantoms: Nine world-class performers, all of whom have an association with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sensational musical The Phantom of the Opera, amongst other West End and Broadway shows, present a thrilling evening of musical theatre. Led by Three Phantoms of the Opera - Matthew Cammelle, Stephen John Davis and Glyn Kerslake, alongside Rebecca Caine - this outstanding show features songs from Les Misérables, West Side Story, Chicago, Kiss Me Kate, My Fair Lady, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera and many more." The cast also includes Annette Yeo, Mandy Watsham Dunstall, Alistair Barron and Maestro Anthony Gabriele.

Richmond Theatre: There is wheelchair and step-free Access to the Stalls, Stalls bar and Accessible toilet. For those using a mobility scooter, please contact the theatre first about leaving the scooter in the foyer area and not the auditorium. The Stalls have dedicated wheelchair spaces for those remaining in their chair. For those who wish to transfer, or others with mobility difficulties, aisle seats within the Stalls can be booked. An induction loop is fully installed in the auditorium. There are a limited number of headsets for the infra-red hearing system which should be booked in advance at the Box Office. Headsets are available from the kiosk in the foyer on payment of a returnable deposit (£5). Assistance dogs are welcome at the theatre, please inform box office staff at time of booking to make arrangements as there is a limit to the number of dogs that can be in the theatre for each performance. Three Phantoms will be performing at Richmond Theatre from Sunday 24th November until Tuesday 26th November 2013. For Access tickets and discounts on companion tickets, please call ATG's dedicated Access line on 0844 871 7677 (discounts for companion tickets available to those on qualifying benefits and pensions).

Three Phantoms Autumn Tour: For all other venues on the Autumn tour, please see the following links and phone numbers... Wednesday 11th - Thursday 12th September at Marlowe Theatre Canterbury (including Thursday matinee), for theatre Access information, see HERE . Or book via Box Office on 01227787787. Saturday 14th September - Sunday 15th September at The Grand Theatre Wolverhampton (including Saturday matinee), for Access information, see HERE and box office number 01902429212. Tuesday 17th - Wednesday 18th September at Opera House Manchester, for theatre Access information, see HERE and box office on 0844 8717677. Thursday 19th September at Belgrade Theatre Coventry, for Access information, see HERE and box office number 024 7655 3055. Friday 20th - Saturday 21st September at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0844 8717677. Sunday 22nd September at Watford Colosseum, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0845 0753993. Tuesday 24th - Thursday 26th September (including Thursday matinee) at Swindon Wyvern Theatre, for Access information, see HERE . Box office number 01793 524481. Friday 27th - Saturday 28th (including Saturday matinee) at Malvern Theatres, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 01684 892277. Sunday 29th September at De Montfort Hall, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0116 2333111.

Monday 7th - Tuesday 8th October at St David's Hall Cardiff, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0292 0878444. Wednesday 9th October at Venue Cymru Llandudno, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 01492 872000. Thursday 10th October at the Cambridge Corn Exchange, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 01223 357851. Saturday 12th - Sunday 13th October at Princess Theatre Torquay, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0844 8717677. Wednesday 16th - Thursday 17th October at the Churchill Theatre Bromley, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0844 871 7677. Saturday 19th - Sunday 20th October at Belfast Grand Opera House, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 02890 241919. Tuesday 22nd - Wednesday 23rd October at Inverness Eden Court, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 01463 234234. Thursday 24th - Saturday 26th October at Edinburgh Festival Theatre, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0131 5296000. Monday 28th - Tuesday 29th October at Perth Concert Hall, for Access information, the box office number is 01738 621031.

Friday 1st - Saturday 2nd November (including Saturday matinee) at Swansea Grand Theatre, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 01792 475715. Sunday 3rd November at Woking New Victoria Theatre, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0844 8717677. Monday 4th - Tuesday 5th November at Buxton Opera House, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0845 1272190. Wednesday 6th - Thursday 7th at Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 01892 530613. Friday 8th - Saturday 9th November at Poole Lighthouse, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0844 406 8666. Tuesday 12th November at Guildford Live, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 0844 7701 797. Thursday 14th - Saturday 16th November at Eastbourne Devonshire Park, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 01323 412000. Sunday 17th November at Southampton Mayflower, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 02380 711811. Tuesday 19th - Wednesday 20th November at Dublin Bord Gais Energy Theatre, for Access information, see HERE , box office number 00 353 818 719 377. Saturday 23rd November at Southend Cliffs Pavilion, for Access information, contact the box office on 01702 351135.

Three Phantoms UK Tour & New Wimbledon Theatre

After several months away, Access London is back! Thank you to everyone for your messages and support over the last few months, very much appreciated. Also finally back on Twitter after a break My Facebook and Twitter feeds have been full of status updates and excitement about this Summer's much anticipated UK tour of the Three Phantoms concert - not surprising as it's a fantastic show, great tunes, funny and performed by some incredibly talented singers. I've had quite a few messages asking about Access to the venues it's touring to. As it's a pretty extensive UK tour (followed by another in the Autumn), I can't give detailed info for all theatres involved. The blog is predominately about London venues, so I'll look at the New Wimbledon Theatre where the tour arrives to in a couple of weeks time. I will include links to the Access pages of all the other venues though, so if you're not in London, check them out and get yourselves to your nearest venue. The Show: Three Phantoms UK Summer tour opened in Dartford last week. Over the next 6 weeks, they are touring the UK extensively. "Earl Carpenter, Matthew Cammelle and Stephen John Davis (our current cast) have all played, to huge acclaim, the mysterious Phantom at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London and between them have given over 3,000 of the show’s 10,000 performances. Established and respected musical theatre performers in their own right, they have been regularly entertaining audiences worldwide in some of the world’s most popular musicals. They are joined onstage by the fantastic Rebecca Caine, whose performance as Christine Daaé in the original cast of The Phantom of the Opera opposite Michael Crawford and the Canadian premiere alongside Colm Wilkinson, was acclaimed on both sides of the Atlantic and who remains an equally respected artist with a career encompassing musicals and opera." "this outstanding show features over 20 songs from Les Misérables, West Side Story, Chicago, Kiss Me Kate, My Fair Lady and Wicked to name but a few. The beautiful staging of this concert, evoking the drama and excitement of the great musicals concludes by celebrating the world’s most successful entertainment phenomenon - The Phantom of the Opera." New Wimbledon Theatre: For wheelchair users (scooter users need to check with venue first) the Stalls are Accessible via the Russell Road Entrance. There is a wheelchair Accessible lift to Access the area and wheelchair spaces have a seat for a companion next to/nearby. If you are transfering into a theatre seat then please let the box office know. For those with limited mobility but who are able to do some stairs then aisle seats in the Stalls are bookable but note that there are steps between rows. An induction loop is available at the box office for those who are hard of hearing. Adapted toilets and a bar are Accessible in the Stalls area. Assistance dogs are allowed into the auditorium but please let the box office know before, when you book your tickets, as only a limited number are allowed per show. Three Phantoms is at the New Wimbledon on Tuesday 18th and Wednesday 19th June 2013, both shows starting at 7.30pm. To book Access tickets (at a discounted rate or companion free rate), call the Access booking line on 0844 871 7677. June Dates and Access bookings: Tuesday 4th - Wednesday 5th June at Bristol Hippodrome, tickets HERE . Thursday 6th - Friday 7th June at Theatre Royal Brighton, tickets HERE . Saturday 8th June at Leeds Grand Theatre, tickets HERE . Monday 10th - Tuesday 11th June at Wycombe Swan Theatre, tickets HERE . Wednesday 12th June at Birmingham Symphony Hall, tickets HERE . Thursday 13th June at Oxford New Theatre, tickets HERE . Friday 14th - Saturday 15th June at Worthing Pavilion Theatre, tickets HERE . Sunday 16th June at Milton Keynes Theatre, tickets HERE . Tuesday 18th - Wednesday 19th June at Wimbledon New Theatre, tickets HERE . Thursday 20th - Saturday 22nd June at Darlington Civic Theatre, tickets HERE . Tuesday 25th - Wednesday 26th June at Hull New Theatre, tickets HERE . Friday 28th - Saturday 29th June at Sunderland Empire, tickets HERE . Sunday 30th June at Carlisle THe Sands Centre, tickets HERE . July Dates and Access Bookings: Monday 1st - Wednesday 3rd July at His Majesty's Theatre Aberdeen, tickets HERE . Thursday 4th - Saturday 6th July at Theatre Royal Glasgow, tickets HERE . Thursday 11th July at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, tickets HERE .

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

Les Miserables @ Queen's Theatre & Q&A with Rebecca Caine and AJ Callaghan

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for helping to support Access For All to the Arts. Opening on the 8th of October 1985 at The Barbican Theatre, Les Miserables is the world's longest running musical and will celebrate its 27th birthday in just over a weeks time. After a short run at The Barbican Theatre, the show transferred to The Palace Theatre in London's West End in December 1985 and spent 18 years there. In 2004, the show moved to its current home at The Queen's Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue.

Access Information - Queen's Theatre: If you are a wheelchair or mobility scooter user or cannot manage stairs, please inform a member of staff upon arrival and they will escort you round to the Accessible entrance. The Accessible entrance to the auditorium is through the fourth side door on Wardour Street. If you are able to transfer from your chair, level transfers are available in row D (may not be suitable for very low seated wheelchairs) in the Dress Circle. Chairs and scooters will be taken and stored at the bottom of the stairs, next to the foyer. If you are a scooter user and prefer not to leave your key with a member of staff, you can drive the scooter there yourself and walk back up to your seat (back up a ramped walkway with handrails). For those needing/wishing to remain in their chairs, spaces are available in Loge 1 and 2 for you and a companion. These will be suitable for wheelchairs which are maximum 1m in length and 64cm wide. For those who can manage some stairs, the Queen's has: 18 steps from the foyer up to the rear Dress Circle. 21 steps from the foyer down to the Stalls. 39 steps from the foyer up to the Upper Circle (this area is quite steep). Assistance dogs are allowed into the auditorium or staff can sit with them during the performance.

Queen's is fitted with an infra-red system and there are 12 headsets available to use upon request and with the production of ID (please inform booking line if you require this service).These are available from the foyer (please ask a member of staff if you are unable to manage stairs), a receipt must be signed and £5 returnable deposit left. There is an Accessible WC next to the foyer, it can be accessed by radar key, or ask a member of staff for assistance to open it. None of the bars at Queen's are Accessible without negotiating stairs but drinks can be brought into the auditorium to those with disabilities. There is a discounted Access rate available to those with a disability, for you and a companion. Please note, there are a very limited number of Access discounted seats per performance and, for such a popular show, early booking is advised if you'd like to take advantage of these rates. To book Access seats and for all other Access information, please call the box office directly on 0844 482 5137 and press the option for the Queen's Theatre. There are occasional captioned and audio-described performances of Les Miserables scheduled. For details of the next performance, please call 0844 482 5166. A lot of readers have been asking me what singers and actors' knowledge and opinions of Access (and sometimes lack of Access) to our theatres and arts venues means to them. So, I've put some of your questions to them and will be posting a series of mini Q&As with some fabulously talented people. As this post's Access information was on Les Miserables, today's mini Q&A is with both the Original Cosette, Rebecca Caine, and current Les Mis cast member (and cover Fantine) AJ Callaghan. Thank you very much to both for their constant support.

Many theatres/arts venues in London still have little or no disabled access. How aware are you of these issues? And how aware do you think other people in the business are? RC: I wasn't at all aware and I'm shocked. I don't think most of us have much of an idea about these issues. AJC: From working front of house at The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and talking to some of the disabled patrons, I am actually very aware of this. Drury Lane has a very good system in place which highlights the discrepancies in other venues. Unfortunately, due to the way theatres are built and because of the time they were built, not all of them have street level access to the auditorium. For instance, just across the road from Drury Lane, is The Fortune Theatre; this theatre has a very small entrance and access to all seating is either up or down stairs, which could be extremely problematic for a disabled patron. With regards to other people's awareness, I'm not really sure. It's not a conversation I've heard backstage recently but this doesn't mean people aren't aware.

As a singer and actor, how important is it to you that everyone who wants to see you perform can access the venue to do so? RC: It’s very, very important to me! AJC: Very Important. Everybody should have access to the arts.

Many theatres and theatre groups currently don't promote and publicise their Access details and rates particularly well. Could this be because they don't want to sell discounted Access tickets or do you think other reasons could be involved? RC: I don't know. Maybe. In the end it's all about the bottom line, sadly. AJC: Unfortunately, Theatre has become part of the corporate world. Making money is a very high priority, if not top of the list of aims for most shows these days. Therefore I hate to say it, but I think maybe it is a case of wanting to sell the seats at top price, rather than advertise a discounted rate, no matter who is affected as a result.

Some of the larger arts venues (Barbican, RFH, RAH, ROH, Coliseum) have their own Access schemes with free membership, large info packs, Access rates, dedicated Access teams. Do you think such schemes could work in West End and off West End theatres? RC: Interesting about those larger venues as they are subsidised. Yes, I believe it would work in the West End also. AJC: Definitely! As I mentioned earlier, Drury Lane has a brilliant access scheme. A separate entrance with a doorbell, which welcome’s the patrons at street level, taking you directly to the access seats. The disabled toilet is also in this area and the seats are set on a wider aisle, making it easier for people who aren't transferring to sit comfortably. An access host is employed on site whose job it is to ensure the well-being of access patrons and that all venue information is relayed proficiently. With a bit of thought and effort, I'm sure this system could be brought in to most, if not all, West End theatres. Any message to theatre owners and groups about the future of Access for All at their venues? RC: GET ON WITH IT. Theatre is for all. AJC: Just that arts audiences should not be defined in any way. Theatre should be accessible to all and as a theatre owner, it is your responsibility to make this possible.

Once again, a big Thank You to both Rebecca and AJ for taking the time to answer those. Rebecca will be returning to The Pheasantry (on the King's Road, London) to perform No, No Cosette! again on the 12th and 13th October. A fabulous evening... "Internationally acclaimed operatic and musical theatre soprano reveals her dark side. Music by Blitzstein, Vernon Duke, Turnage, Ravenhill/Offenbach, Kern, Porter, Novello, Yeston, Coward and more. With Nathan Martin on piano." The Pheasantry, unfortunately, can only be Accessed via a flight of stairs. If you can manage these, then it's a night not to be missed. To book for the 12th October, go HERE . For the 13th October, go HERE . For details of Rebecca's concerts, in Canada this Autumn and Winter, see her WEBSITE . Follow Rebecca on Twitter @RebeccaCaine .

AJ is currently performing in Les Miserables until June 2013. Her next dates as Fantine are: 1st & 2nd October, 11th-20th October and 29th November-1st December. To book Access seats for Les Miserables, call 0844 482 5137. Follow AJ on Twitter @AJCallaghan1 .

The Sound Of Music & Kilworth House Theatre

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You for continuing to support Access for All to the Arts. Today's post focuses on a venue outside of London...Kilworth House Theatre, Leicestershire and its forthcoming production of The Sound Of Music.

"'The Sound of Music' is quite simply one of the most popular musicals of all time. As their final collaboration Rodgers and Hammerstein have created a true classic of musical theatre based on the heartwarming, true story of the Trapp Family Singers. Maria, a young nun in an Austrian convent regularly misses her morning prayers preferring to go to the hills to sing. Deciding that Maria is too high spirited and needs to learn something about the real world before she can take her vows, the Mother Superior dispatches her to serve as a governess for the children of the widowed Captain Von Trapp. Rodgers and Hammerstein's unforgettable score delivers some of the most memorable songs ever written for the musical stage including 'Edelweiss', 'My Favourite Things', 'Climb Ev'ry Mountain' 'Do-Re-Mi' and, of course, the title song. 'The Sound of Music' originally opened on Broadway in November 1959 and since then has gone on to touch the hearts of all ages around the world. Uplifting , fun yet always moving 'The Sound of Music' is an unmissable treat for all the family."

Running at Kilworth House Theatre, set in the beautiful grounds of Kilworth House, this is a show not to be missed this Summer. The Sound Of Music runs from the 21st August until the 16th September 2012. Evening performances start at 7.30pm Tuesday-Sunday, with matinees on Wednesdays, Saturdays and some Sundays. The fabulous cast for this production includes.... Helena Blackman (Maria) @helenablackman Rebecca Caine (Elsa) @RebeccaCaine Ian Knaur (Georg) Russell Wilcox (Max) @russwilcox Dom Hodson (Rolf) @DomHodson Jan Hartley (Mother Abbess) Hazel Gardner (Liesl) @IAmHazelGardner

Access Information: "The whole of the Kilworth House Theatre site including the car park is accessible for wheelchair usersand those with mobility difficulties. Within the auditorium there are four spaces on Row A reserved for wheelchair users. In each case there is a seat next to the wheelchair space for an accompanying person. We prefer to speak directly to the customer about their specific needs and allocate them the best seats available to serve these needs. There are reserved parking spaces for wheelchair users only and we have our own wheelchair available on request. Access between the Hotel and the Theatre: There is a well marked path between the hotel and the theatre suitable, if necessary, for a wheelchair. For clients with mobility difficulties we can provide transport by golf buggy between the hotel and the theatre entrance and vice versa, commencing one hour before and immediately after the show. Hearing Impairment: The theatre has installed an induction loop system for those who use a hearing aid. It is necessary to set your hearing aid to the T position before the performance starts. Assistance Dogs: Kilworth House Theatre welcomes assistance dogs and is happy to cater for their needs when attending a performance. Please notify the box office when booking to enable us to allocate the best seats available to serve their needs.

I found box office staff dealing with Access bookings to be extremely helpful. The Sound Of Music's Access tickets policy allows for a free companion ticket to be booked alongside the Access ticket. Access tickets need to be booked via the box office directly on 01858 881939 (Mon-Fri 10am - 4pm). For more information about Kilworth House Theatre, please see their site at www.kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk *Some text and images taken from Kilworth House Theatre website. Additional images from Rebecca Caine

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 - 1 Today!!

Welcome back to Access London and a huge Thank You once again for your continued support for disabled access to the arts in London.

Today's post is somewhat different as Access London is celebrating its first birthday today!! I can't quite believe it has been a year since I launched this blog and posted the first welcome post - it's been a fantastic year, a lot learnt, hopefully some things achieved and help provided to those needing to know more about access to the theatre and arts in London.

This last year has seen many theatres, galleries, museums and venues reviewed on their access and I'd like to send out a huge thank you to all the staff at all the venues for their help and support over the last year, providing information, interviews and images.

My next Thank You goes to every reader of Access London for your loyal support and for helping to spread the word about it - it is so much appreciated. I do read every single one of your messages, comments, emails and tweets sent and I hope have managed to reply to them all (if I haven't yet, I will very soon, I promise). As I have mentioned on previous posts, if you have any questions about access to any venues, please don't hesitate to get in touch, if the venue hasn't yet been reviewed, it doesn't mean that I don't know details of the access there or the best person for you to contact, but more likely that I haven't yet gotten around to reviewing if officially. If however, you have any questions for people that have been interviewed on Access London (and many of you have sent me questions) it really would be best for you to send them to the person involved, so you can get the most accurate answers and information. I'd also like to thank everyone who has supported Access London and its posts on both Twitter and Facebook - I couldn't have done it without you!

This year Access London noted some important access issues at the Royal Albert Hall -after fairly extensive discussions with management at the Hall, specific changes and improvements were promised - some immediate and some on a more medium-long term plan. I am going back to see a concert there just before Christmas and will hopefully be able to come back to you with good news on some changes that have been made since the Phantom 25 celebrations in October this year. Another venue that presented access issues was the Palladium - not so much in terms of physical access but of disability awareness, staff training and treatment of those with disabilities. Again, various discussions have been had and letters corresponded (of which I received an extremely helpful and supportive one from Andrew Lloyd Webber's office) and once again, I hope to bring news of improvements made at that theatre very soon.

Some of the venues that have proven to be well geared up to help those with disabilities include: The Palace, Her Majesty's, Criterion, Gielgud, Southwark Playhouse, Royal Festival Hall, National Theatre, Victoria Palace, Haymarket, The Barbican and the Adelphi. There is still much to be done to improve the access for all to our theatres and arts venues in London but these theatres are some that have made an excellent start to being accessible and are showing a good example to others that really do need to look at their access: both the policies they put in place and the physical access to the theatre too.

Access London was recently lucky enough to work with Degrafik, a great young designer who has designed Access London's new logo - a huge Thank You to Damion for all your help. Access London feels it is a fitting time as any to reveal the new logo to you (although my Facebook friends have had a sneak peak at it a couple of weeks ago!)




Access London has been fortunate enough to be able to interview lots of cast members from some truly fabulous shows over the past year and I'd like to take this opportunity to say a huge Thank You for the time and support of: Rosemary Ashe, Gina Beck, Kieran Brown, Lee Bowen, Patrick Burbridge, Rebecca Caine, AJ Callaghan, Earl Carpenter, Steven Cleverley, Scott Davies, Stephen John Davis, Janet Devenish, Killian Donnelly, Cynthia Erivo, Sofia Escobar, Sophie Evans, Daniel Gourlay, Celia Graham, Richard Halton, Cameron Jack, Chris Jenkins, John Owen Jones, Paul Keating, Daniel Koek, Joanna Loxton, Myrra Malmberg, Frances Ruffelle, Simon Shorten, Emily Tierney, Katy Treharne, Tabitha Webb, Nick Wyschna, Michael Xavier.

Finally, a special Thank You to some for their continued support and fabulous generosity: Lee Bowen, Sofia Escobar, John Owen Jones, Rebecca Caine, AJ Callaghan, Myrra Malmberg, Nick Wyschna, everyone at The Cavendish Hotel, Her Majesty's Theatre, Palace Theatre, Adelphi Theatre, V&A Museum, and some special Twitter mentions for @LugiLou @inlondonguide @AboutLondonNews @kaydub89.

Access London has at least 2 awareness and fundraising events planned so far for 2012 including, an online charity auction for the beginning of the new year (to include lots of great theatre related items including signed cds and posters) and a charity concert for next September to coincide around the time of the paralympics. Details of the auction will be around from very early on in the new year and the concert throughout 2012, thank you for any and all support you can show for either event.

On that note (and after receiving many requests that I include it in this birthday post), I'll leave you with a video that has been taking Twitter and Youtube by storm over the last week - no, not the trailer for the Phantom25 dvd but, the latest challenge in the johnvskillian battle from the fabulous John Owen Jones and Killian Donnelly - watch for a great laugh and see The Phantom and Raoul as you've never seen them before - check out the rest of the challenges on their Youtube channel....