Accessibility at the Palace Theatre Manchester

As a disbaled blogger living in Manchester, I often feel cautious when attending events or venues in the city. Not because I don’t want to go out, but because accessibility can be unpredictable. I don’t use a wheelchair, but I do have limited mobility, and that often puts me in an awkward in-between space where my needs aren’t always obvious or well understood. That’s why my recent visit to the Palace Theatre in Manchester stood out so much, it was genuinely one of the most positive experiences I’ve had as a disabled person attending a show.

On this occasion, I went to see SIX the Musical, and from start to finish, the experience was absolutely wonderful. I attended the theatre with a blind companion who uses a guide dog, and from the moment we arrived, it was clear that the Palace Theatre, Manchester had put real thought into inclusion and accessibility.

Arriving at the Theatre and First Impressions

Before even stepping inside, we were made to feel welcome. We both used access cards, which allowed us to queue jump rather than stand for long periods — something that makes a huge difference when mobility is limited. There was no awkwardness, no questioning, and no feeling like we were being a nuisance. Staff were calm, friendly, and clearly trained to understand access needs.

For someone like me, who can walk but struggles with standing and long distances, this kind of consideration matters more than people realise. It removes stress before the evening has even properly started and allows you to actually look forward to the show.

Accessible Seating and Thoughtful Support

Inside the theatre, the accessible seating was excellent. The seats were easy to reach, well-positioned, and didn’t feel like an afterthought tucked away at the back. I didn’t have to worry about steep stairs, squeezing past people, or feeling rushed.

This made it much easier to relax and fully enjoy SIX the Musical, which was energetic, engaging, and such a joy to watch. Being comfortable and supported meant I could focus on the performance rather than my body or surroundings.

What stood out most was how attentive the staff were without being overbearing. They checked that we were comfortable, explained where the facilities were, and made sure my companion and their guide dog were settled properly. There was space, understanding, and patience — all things that can make or break an experience for disabled visitors.

Attending With a Guide Dog

Watching how the theatre accommodated a blind person with a guide dog was genuinely reassuring. The staff were respectful, knowledgeable, and clearly used to welcoming assistance animals. There was no hesitation or confusion — just quiet professionalism.

The guide dog was treated as part of the experience, not as a problem to be managed. That level of respect allowed my companion to enjoy SIX the Musical fully and comfortably, without unnecessary stress.

Accessibility Beyond Physical Access

What impressed me most was that accessibility at the Palace Theatre goes far beyond ramps and seating. They offer a range of support options for disabled people, including:

• Access performances, such as audio-described shows for blind and visually impaired audiences
• Captioned and signed performances for Deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons
• Relaxed performances, designed for people who may need a more flexible environment
• Access cards and assistance schemes to reduce waiting and physical strain

These aren’t just boxes being ticked — they’re thoughtful measures that acknowledge disabled people have different needs and experiences.

Feeling Included, Not Managed

As a disbaled blogger living in Manchester, I often write about how disability access isn’t just about physical adjustments — it’s about attitude. At the Palace Theatre, I didn’t feel like a problem to be solved. I felt like a guest who deserved to enjoy the show as much as anyone else.

That feeling is rare. Too often, disabled people are made to feel awkward, rushed, or invisible. Here, it was the opposite. The staff clearly wanted us to have a good experience, and that intention showed in every interaction.

Why Experiences Like This Matter

Positive experiences like this shouldn’t be exceptional, but sadly, they still are. When venues get accessibility right, it encourages disabled people to engage more with the world around them. It builds confidence, independence, and trust.

Seeing SIX the Musical in an environment where accessibility was prioritised made the experience even more special. It reminded me that disabled people deserve not just access, but joy.

Final Thoughts

My visit to the Palace Theatre, Manchester to see SIX the Musical was enjoyable, comfortable, and genuinely uplifting — everything a night out should be. As someone with limited mobility, attending alongside a blind person with a guide dog, and we were both supported in ways that felt natural and respectful.

If more venues followed the Palace Theatre’s example, disabled people wouldn’t have to approach outings with hesitation. As a disbaled individual, I can honestly say this was a truly wonderful experience and a theatre I would happily recommend to other disabled people.