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The Alexandra Theatre

Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DS

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About this venue

The Alexandra in Birmingham was built in 1901 and over the last century has become one of the leading performance venues in the West Midlands, hosting acclaimed musicals, drama, comedy, and concerts. The Alexandra (opens in new tab) underwent a £650k refurbishment and rebrand in 2018 revamping the auditorium and front-of-house spaces.

Access Guide

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Introduction

  • Services / facilities within the building include the Piano Bar, The Baby Piano Bar, and the Stalls Bar.
  • Comments View
    • The Alexandra Theatre is a historic building and has step-free access to the stall's auditorium only.
    • Access to the Main Entrance, Box Office, Concierge Desk, old Foyer Entrance, the Piano Bar, The Baby Piano Bar, the Stalls Bar, and Standard Toilets is via steps only.
    • There is a dedicated free of charge Access Hotline on 0121 230 9077 which is open 10:00 - 18:00 Monday to Saturday.
    • Familiarisation visits are available upon request.
    • Throughout the year the venue offers several relaxed performances for people with learning disabilities and autism.

Location

  • There is not a bus stop within 150m (164yds) of the venue.
  • The nearest National Rail station is Birmingham New Street.

Opening Times (Alexandra Theatre)

  • Opening times do vary depending on performances.

Parking

  • The venue does not have its own car park.
  • Public Car Parks View
    • There is a car park for public use within 200m (approx).
    • The name of the car park is NCP New Street.
    • The car park is located on St Judes Passage.
    • There is a/are Blue Badge parking bay(s) available within the car park.
  • On Street Blue Badge Parking View
    • On street marked Blue Badge bays are available.
    • The dimensions of the marked Blue Badge bays are 210cm x 490cm (6ft 11in x 16ft 1in).
    • On street Blue Badge parking is located on Station Street.
  • On Street Standard Parking View
    • Clearly signed and / or standard marked parking bays are available.
    • The dimensions of the standard marked parking bays are 210cm x 490cm (6ft 11in x 16ft 1in).
    • Standard marked parking bays are located on Station Street.
  • Drop-off Point View
    • There is a designated drop off point.
    • The drop off point is located in front of the Main Entrance on Suffolk Street Queensway.

Outside Access (Main Entrance)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the venue on Suffolk Street Queensway.
    • There is stepped access at this entrance.
    • There is a bell/buzzer.
    • The height of the bell/buzzer is 85cm (2ft 9in).
    • There is not an intercom.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (towards you).
    • The door(s) is/are double width.
    • The width of the door opening is 160cm.
  • Step(s) View
    • The step(s) is/are located in front of the entrance.
    • There is/are 3 step(s).
    • The step(s) is/are clearly marked.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are not between 15cm and 18cm.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are 19cm.
    • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
    • The handrail(s) is/are on both sides.
    • Handrails are at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
    • Handrails do not cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
    • Handrails are easy to grip.
    • Handrails do not extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
  • Comments View
    • Photograph 4 shows the bell.
    • The information provided close to the bell is pictorial, written text and Braille.

Outside Access (Old Foyer Entrance)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located at the side of the venue on Station Street.
    • There is stepped access at this entrance.
    • There is a bell/buzzer.
    • The height of the bell/buzzer is 150cm (4ft 11in).
    • There is not an intercom.
    • The main door(s) open(s) towards you (pull).
    • The door(s) is/are double width but one door is locked.
    • The width of the door opening is 83cm.
    • There is a small lip on the threshold of the entrance, with a height of 2cm or below.
  • Step(s) View
    • The step(s) is/are located in front of the entrance.
    • There is/are 2 step(s).
    • The step(s) is/are clearly marked.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are not between 15cm and 18cm.
    • The height of the step(s) is/are 14cm.
    • There is not a/are not handrail(s) at the step(s).

Outside Access (Accessible Entrance)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located on Station Street.
    • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance.
    • There is a bell/buzzer.
    • The height of the bell/buzzer is 130cm (4ft 3in).
    • There is an intercom.
    • The height of the intercom is 127cm (4ft 2in).
    • The main door(s) open(s) towards you (pull).
    • The door(s) is/are double width.
    • The width of the door opening is 148cm.
    • The door(s) open(s) towards you (pull).
    • The door(s) is/are double width.
    • The door(s) may be difficult to open.
    • The width of the door opening is 148cm.
  • Ramp/Slope View
    • The ramp/slope is located in front of the entrance.
    • The gradient of the ramp/slope is slight.
  • Comments View
    • At every performance there is an Access Ambassador stationed at the door to assist patrons.
    • Tickets can be collected from the Access Ambassador.

Reception (Box Office)

  • The desk/counter is 7m (7yd 1ft) from the Main Entrance.
  • There is level access to the desk/counter from the entrance.
  • The desk/counter is medium height (77cm - 109cm).
  • The desk/counter does not have a low (76cm or lower) section.
  • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • There is a hearing assistance system.
  • The type of system is a fixed loop.
  • Staff are trained to use the system.

Reception (Concierge)

  • The desk/counter is 3m (3yd 10in) from the Main Entrance.
  • There is level access to the desk/counter from the entrance.
  • The desk/counter is medium height (77cm - 109cm).
  • The desk/counter does not have a low (76cm or lower) section.
  • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • There is not a hearing assistance system.

Inside Access

  • There is level access to the service(s).
  • There is a hearing assistance system.
  • Staff are trained to use the system.
  • This venue does play background music.
  • Music is played within the auditorium.
  • Motorised scooters are not welcomed in public parts of the venue.
  • The lighting levels are varied.
  • Comments View
    • There are two types of hearing loops available; a necklace type or headset.
    • Please advise at the time of booking which you require.
    • They can be collected upon arrival by a member of the front of house team.

Theatre

  • There are designated spaces for wheelchair users.
  • Designated seating is located in at the front and rear of the theatre.
  • Wheelchairs are left with you.
  • A companion may sit with you.
  • Companions sit on the adjacent seats.
  • It is 15m (16yd 1ft) from the designated seating area to the nearest accessible toilet.
  • This venue does provide audio described performances.
  • There is a hearing assistance system.
  • The hearing assistance system is infrared.
  • Staff are trained to use the hearing assistance system.
  • A deposit is not required for the hearing assistance system.
  • The rows suitable for hearing assistance systems are C-T.
  • There is not a wheelchair to borrow.
  • Concessions are available.
  • Assistance dogs are allowed in the auditorium.
  • To view the www.atgtickets.com website for more information on accessible seating please click here (new tab).
  • Comments View
    • Photographs 1 and 2 show the accessible seating at the rear of the stalls.
    • There are 15+ medium clearly marked steps without handrails leading throughout the tiered theatre seating (photograph 6).
    • Rows A and AA can be removed depending on the performances to allow for dancing.
    • Accessible seating is at the end of rows D and E on the left side and middle (viewed with your back to the stage). Photographs 8 and 9.
    • The bars are all stepped access, but the theatre offers the Ordertorium service. Drinks and snacks can be ordered from and delivered to your seat.
    • There is a menu available at every seat.
    • Orders can be placed and paid for by App or in person.

Other Floors

  • Steps View
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are Dress Circle to Upper Circle.
    • There are 15+ steps between floors.
    • The steps are clearly marked.
    • The steps are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
    • There is a landing.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • Other View
    • The area(s)/service(s) on the floors which are not accessible is/are the Piano Bar, Baby Piano Bar, Stalls Bar, and VIP lounge.
  • Comments View
    • The stairs detailed also have a handrail in the centre.
    • Photographs 4 and 5 show the stairs at the rear of the venue.
    • These stairs have handrails on both sides.

Eating and Drinking (Stalls Bar)

  • The following information is for the bar.
  • The bar is located adjacent to the old foyer entrance.
  • The bar does not serve food.
  • Full table service is not available.
  • Food or drinks are ordered from the service counter.
  • There is not a lowered section at the counter.
  • No chairs are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs have armrests.
  • There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre.
  • Drinking straws are available.
  • Children are welcomed in the bar area.
  • Menus are hand held and wall.
  • Menus are not available in Braille.
  • Menus are not available in large print.
  • Picture menus are not available.
  • Menus are clearly written.
  • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
  • The type of food served here is cold snacks.

Eating and Drinking (Piano Bar)

  • The following information is for the bar.
  • The bar is located on the first floor.
  • The bar does serve food.
  • Full table service is not available.
  • Food or drinks are ordered from the service counter.
  • Food or drinks can be brought to the table.
  • There is a lowered section at the counter.
  • No tables are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs have armrests.
  • The distance between the floor and the lowest table is 55cm (1ft 10in).
  • The distance between the floor and the highest table is 100cm (3ft 3in).
  • Drinking straws are available.
  • Children are welcomed in the bar area.
  • Menus are hand held only.
  • Menus are not available in Braille.
  • Menus are not available in large print.
  • Picture menus are not available.
  • Menus are clearly written.
  • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
  • The type of food served here is cold snacks.
  • Comments View
    • There is a pianist playing in this area before all performances.
    • There is a cold snacks and drinks kiosk to the right of the bar (photograph 5).
    • The height of this counter is 96cm.

Eating and Drinking (Baby Piano Bar)

  • The following information is for the bar.
  • The bar is located on the first floor.
  • The bar does not serve food.
  • Full table service is not available.
  • Food or drinks are ordered from the service counter.
  • Food or drinks can be brought to the table.
  • There is a lowered section at the counter.
  • No tables are permanently fixed.
  • Some chairs are permanently fixed.
  • Some chairs have armrests.
  • The standard height for tables is 43cm.
  • Drinking straws are available.
  • Children are welcomed in the bar area.
  • Menus are hand held only.
  • Menus are not available in Braille.
  • Menus are not available in large print.
  • Picture menus are not available.
  • Menus are clearly written.
  • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
  • Comments View
    • There is a pianist playing in this area before all performances.

Eating and Drinking (The Ambassador Lounge)

  • The following information is for the bar.
  • The bar is located near to the dress circle.
  • The bar does not serve food.
  • Full table service is available.
  • No tables are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs have armrests.
  • The nearest table is approximately 10m (10yd 2ft) from the Ambassador Lounge Entrance.
  • The standard height for tables is 59cm.
  • Drinking straws are available.
  • Children are welcomed in the bar area.
  • Menus are hand held only.
  • Menus are not available in Braille.
  • Menus are not available in large print.
  • Picture menus are not available.
  • Menus are clearly written.
  • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.

Level Change (The Ambassador Lounge)

  • There is a/are step(s) to access this area/service.
  • The step(s) is/are located beyond the entrance to the lounge.
  • There is/are 9 step(s) to the area/service.
  • The lighting levels at the step(s) are low to moderate.
  • The step(s) is/are clearly marked.
  • The step(s) is/are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
  • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
  • The handrail(s) is/are on the left going up the step(s).

Toilet with Adaptations (Right Hand Transfer)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • There is pictorial and written text signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 3m (3yd 10in) from the Accessible Entrance.
    • This accessible toilet is located on the left as you enter via the Accessible Entrance.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a shared toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is locked by a twist lock.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 83cm (2ft 9in).
    • The door may be difficult to open.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 142cm x 250cm (4ft 8in x 8ft 2in).
    • There is not sufficient turning space in the cubicle for a wheelchair user.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the right.
    • The lateral transfer space is 66cm (2ft 2in).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a flush, however it is not on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency alarm.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the cubicle.
    • There is a/are sanitary and non-infectious waste disposal units.
    • There is not a/are not coat hook(s).
  • Position of Fixtures View
    • Wall mounted grab rails are available for the toilet.
    • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • There is a mirror.
    • Mirrors are not placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 49cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • The height of the wash basin is 80cm (2ft 7in).
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • There is a high colour contrast between the internal door and wall.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There is a good colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Baby change facilities are located within the venue.
    • Baby change facilities are located within this Accessible Toilet.
    • The height of the baby change table once extended is 95cm (3ft 1in).
  • Comments View
    • This toilet can also be accessed from the front right of the Theatre Auditorium.

Standard Toilet(s)

  • Availability and Location of Standard Toilets View
    • Standard toilet facilities are available.
  • Access to Standard Female and Male Toilet(s) View
    • The female and male toilet facilities that were surveyed are located at the rear of the stalls.
    • The female and male toilets are approximately 35m (38yd 10in) from the Accessible Entrance.
    • Inside the venue, there is not level access to the female and male toilets.
    • Lighting levels in the female and male toilets are moderate to good.
  • Comments View
    • There are also female and male standard toilets in the dress circle level and the upper circle.
    • There are shared standard toilets in the Ambassadors Lounge (photographs 7 and 8).

Level Change (Standard Toilets)

  • There is a/are step(s) to access this area/service.
  • The step(s) is/are located leading to the male standard toilets.
  • There is/are 7 step(s) to the area/service.
  • The lighting levels at the step(s) are medium.
  • The step(s) is/are clearly marked.
  • The step(s) is/are deep (18cm+).
  • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
  • The handrail(s) is/are on the right going up the step(s).
  • Comments View
    • Photograph 3 shows the clearly marked shallow step without handrails leading to one of the cubicles in the female standard toilet.

Additional Info

  • Documents can be requested in Braille.
  • Documents are available in large print.
  • A bowl of water can be provided for an assistance dog.
  • An assistance dog toilet area can be provided onsite.
  • The assistance dog toilet area is located at the rear of the venue on Station Street.
  • A member of staff trained in BSL skills is normally on duty.
  • Staff are trained to BSL level (unknown at time of research).
  • Comments View
    • All staff are taught basic sign language as part of their training, but they are not fluent.
    • A member of staff is designated to assist with assistance dogs if required.