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 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

Phantom of the Opera's 25th Anniversary & Interview with Phantom, Scott Davies

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for supporting disability access and awareness in the Capital.

First off, I must say a massive Thank You to everyone for your feedback on the last post, the responses have been coming in thick and fast about your stories from the Royal Albert Hall - some of you have asked if it is just issues from Phantom25 access seating I am interested in, no, it isn't, any access problems you have had at the Hall, from booking tickets, communication breakdowns to the seating itself.

I did say in the last post that this one would be dedicated to some of the issues that people have been having and some of the feedback I have received from the Hall after having several long conversations with them, including one very long one at the Hall itself after the Phantom25 performance on 1st October. However, due to the amount of messages, comments, Tweets and emails I have received on this, I am delaying this post until next week so that I can edit down all the main points you have been raising, please do continue to send in your stories if you have one though.

Also promised in the previous post was more information about Access at Her Majesty's Theatre....
If you are a wheelchair or scooter user, or cannot manage stairs, then there is a side entrance on Charles II Street that has level access to the rear of the stalls and also a storage area for chairs and scooters and an accessible WC. When you arrive at the theatre, simply ask someone at FOH (usually people outside from about 30-45 minutes before a performance starts) and they will escort you around to this entrance.

There are 4 wheelchair spaces (with companion seats) in Row S in the stalls. If you can transfer then any aisle seat in the stalls can be booked (subject to availability of course!). The stalls have a relatively gentle rake with a handrail along the wall. People making an access booking are assigned an usher to assist them, although a companion must accompany each access booking made and both are entitled to the Access booking rate.

Charles II Street also has several blue badge bays along it - these are time restricted until 6.00pm but not afterwards. There are also several blue badge bays in St James' Square which is a few minutes walk away down Charles II Street.

Her Majesty's has an infra red system with 10 headsets available (a receipt needs to be signed at time of collection) - ask at the box office or any member of staff if you wish to use one. Assistance dogs can be looked after by staff during the performance - a maximum of 2 dogs per performance. Large print programmes and braille cast lists are also available upon request.

To book your access tickets for Phantom of the Opera, please call: 0844 412 4648.


Access London is delighted to share with you another cast interview in celebration of 25 years of the show. Today's interview is with Scott Davies - Scott performed as The Phantom at both Her Majesty's Theatre and on the UK tour, he is currently the Standby Phantom in London. Access London would like to say a huge Thank You to Scott for taking the time to answer some questions....


AL: How does it feel to be part of such an iconic and much-loved show as Phantom?
SD: It's amazing! I still have to pinch myself when I walk past front of house before the show and think, oh! that's me!!


AL: Why do you believe the show is so loved and has audiences returning time and again?
SD: The story is just so simple yet offers everything an audience could want. Obviously the score is beautiful too.


AL: The Phantom's character is quite volatile. How do you go about getting into role each night?
SD: The show has a really clever way of cranking up the tension so a lot of the preparation happens within the actual show. It's really exciting.


AL: I'm sure you've been asked this a lot but, what is the make up process like to go through?
SD: No problem. My Make-up artist is fab and manages to do the make up quickly and effortlessly. We get on well so it's a nice time to catch up with each other.


AL: Do you have a favourite song/scene to perform?
SD: My favourite is the final lair because it shows the real extremes of the Phantom's character.


AL: You have played The Phantom at both Her Majesty's and on the UK tour. How did these experiences differ for you?
SD: Both were great but London is better because it's nice being at home.


AL: Her Majesty's has been the long time home of Phantom since it opened and so is completely set up for it, with staging, sets and technical elements. Does this differ a great deal when the show is on tour?
SD: The sets and props are identical so no differences there. Sometimes playing a larger house though changed the intimacy of the show that is created at Her Majesty's.


AL: Having played opposite quite a few Christines, does your performance change depending on which actress is playing her?
SD: Some reactions are different but my intentions remain the same.


AL: With a show like Phantom that has so many technical elements and special effects in, do you have a tale to tell of a mishap during a performance?
SD: I went on for the final lair on tour and there was no port-cullis, no throne, no organ, no candles, nothing!! Half way through the scene I saw the throne and organ being pushed on by a broom handle!!!


AL: Lastly, do you have a Birthday Message for Phantom and its fans?
SD: Thanks for your ongoing loyalty and support. Here's to the next 25 years!!!


Once again, Thank You Scott for your time and for supporting disabled access to the arts in London. Scott is contracted as the standby Phantom until September 2012. You can also see Scott perform in the English National Opera's production of Tosca at the London Coliseum as Spoletta - performances on 26, 28, 30 November, 2 December and 17, 21, 24, 29 January, with a signed performance on 24 January. To book Access tickets (and to join the Access scheme at ENO) please call: 0871 472 0666. For all other ticket types, please call: 0871 911 0200.


If you have a story about any any Access issue at the Royal Albert Hall, you can contact me at claire@horizon-va.co.uk
Or, send me a Tweet @HorizonVA


COMING SOON: The Globe Theatre, The Lion In Winter, London Coliseum, Royal Albert Hall Access Issues, More from Phantom 25 - interviews with Sofia Escobar and more...