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IRT makes theatre accessible to all
Leading seniors lifestyle and care provider, IRT has entered into a new partnership with Merrigong Theatre Company to provide access services at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) for its 2011 season.
IRT Chief Executive, Nieves Murray said the partnership would assist all Illawarra residents to enjoy the theatre.
“Going to the theatre is such a wonderful experience, and one that should be available to everyone, whether they are frail, elderly or suffer from a disability,” Ms Murray said. “We hope this sponsorship will allow people to attend who would otherwise be unable to experience the joy of the theatre.”
Merrigong Theatre Artistic Director / CEO, Simon Hinton said Merrigong Theatre Company is committed to making theatre accessible to people of all ability levels.
“We value all our patrons and want to ensure that everyone who attends our shows has the same great experience” Mr Hinton said.
Mr Hinton said access services offered at IPAC include:
Disabled Access – IPAC is fitted with disabled facilities and both theatres have a number of seats or wheelchair positions for people with mobility concerns.
Hearing Assistance – both IPAC theatres are equipped with hearing enhancement facilities for people with hearing difficulties. The Gordon theatre holds a hearing loop which can be accessed via the T-switch on hearing aids and the IMB theatre provides hearing augmentation via headsets.
Captioned Performances – most Saturday matinee performance in the Merrigong Theatre Season will be captioned for the benefit of deaf and hearing impaired people.
Parking – free disabled parking is available on Burelli Street and in the Stewart Street Car Park during patrolled periods.
Companion Card – a carer receives a free ticket when accompanying a paid Companion Card holder to the theatre.
IPAC patron Sandra Lewis has a visual impairment and is a regular user of the Companion Card.
“Using the Companion Card allows me to continue to do the things I love,” Ms Lewis said. “I was very excited to learn that IPAC uses the Companion Card and have used it to attend the Symphony Orchestra, the ballet and a number of plays.
“My Companion helps me find my seat, use the bathroom facilities and get something to eat and drink. She also explains what’s happening on stage,” she said.
For further information please contact:
Deborah De Santis
Media Advisor
T: 0403 121 651
