Access and auditorium for wheelchairs
We have 3 to 6 wheelchair spaces available, depending on the show layout, for customers who need to remain in their wheelchair throughout the performance. These can be booked through the Box Office by phone or in person, or online if you are registered with the Blackburn Empire Access Register. On the seating plan, wheelchair spaces are shown on Row W.
If you are able to transfer from your wheelchair to a theatre seat, Row F is generally the row we recommend. Much of Row F is level access and it is therefore the row where we are most likely to be able to accommodate a wheelchair-to-seat transfer. We will also be happy to store your wheelchair safely during the performance.
However, not every seat in Row F can be accessed directly by wheelchair and we cannot guarantee that a particular position within the row will be suitable for your individual circumstances. For example, booking a seat in Row F does not necessarily mean that you will be able to reach a seat in the middle of the row without negotiating standard theatre seating.
If you use a wheelchair, have limited mobility, are unable to negotiate a standard theatre seat row, or have not visited the theatre before and are unsure whether a particular seat or area will be suitable, please contact the Box Office before booking online. Our team can talk through your individual requirements and advise on the most appropriate available seating. Please do not assume from the seating plan or row recommendation that a particular seat will meet your access needs.
For groups of four or more that include an accessible seat, we may not be able to seat everyone on the same row. In these cases, we may recommend booking in blocks across Row W and Row D or Row W and Row F. Our Box Office team will be happy to advise on the best available arrangement for your group.
Please book wheelchair spaces in advance, as we cannot guarantee availability on the day of a performance or when arriving at the Box Office immediately before a show.
