Berkeley Rep Launches New Accessibility Options for Theatregoers

Get ready for an even more inclusive theatre experience at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Starting this October, Berkeley Rep is introducing Audio Description (AD) services to make their performances accessible to patrons who are blind or have low vision. This exciting initiative will be available for the last Saturday matinee of each mainstage production during the 2024/25 season.

Thanks to Gravity Access Services, AD will provide live verbal descriptions of everything happening on stage—action, costumes, settings, facial expressions, and more—through wireless headsets. This means everyone can fully enjoy the magic of theatre.

“At Berkeley Rep, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where the arts are accessible to all,” said Berkeley Rep Managing Director Tom Parrish. “We are thrilled to add Audio Description services to our accessibility initiatives, bringing each performance to life with vivid verbal descriptions and ensuring that the magic of theatre is more accessible to patrons who are blind or have low vision."

Audio Description is just one new component of Berkeley Rep’s accessibility programming, they also offer closed captioning at select performances, with text captions delivered straight to your smartphone, in partnership with CCTheater.

If you’re interested in an Audio Description subscription for the 2024/25 season, visit Berkley Rep’s website or call the box office at 510.647.2949.