Access and Accessibility
At Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre (DRTCC) we are committed to making your theatre experience world class. If there is anything we have missed please let us know.
Drop off – There is an area directly out the front of the DRTCC for brief and easy patron drop offs and pickups. Please keep this area clear at other times for use by emergency vehicles.
Ramp – There is a ramp leading to the automatic doors at the main entrance as well as handrails on the outside steps leading into the building.
Level Access Points There is level access to the main foyer through the automatic doors at the main entrance on Darling Street. To reach the mezzanine level we have a passenger lift in the main foyer which operates between Foyer/Ground level and the Mezzanine level. We also have a level access point to the auditorium through Door 1 which allows patrons to walk directly into the theatre.
What about wheelchair bookings?
We offer seating accommodations to patrons who use wheelchairs or have other requirements, such as an aisle seat or limited stair access. Patrons who use a wheelchair can transfer to a theatre seat or may remain in their chair and request for a seat to be removed. To best meet your seating needs, we encourage you to book your tickets early. Accessible seating cannot be booked online and are released for general sale one week prior to the show or earlier for sold-out performances. We are also trialing an assisted lift chair known as ‘Kayla’ located in row P 1. We have also introduced wheelchair service for patrons who prefer not to use the external stairs or ramp to the front foyer. Our ushers are on hand to meet you at your car out the front of the Theatre and escort you to the Theatre Foyer. Please call the Box Office on 02 6801 4378 to reserve an accessible seat, to book Kayla or to book the wheelchair service. Alternatively, you may email drtcc@dubbo.nsw.gov.au
Patrons who experience difficulties with stairs are encouraged to purchase tickets in the below areas:
No stairs - Row A which is the front row and Row P which is at the rear near the passenger lift. These rows include the designated accessible seating. All other rows require stairs up or down.
Leg room - need more leg room? Rows M and E have more leg room than any other rows! Just remember ‘more leg room for ME’.
Accessible Facilities There is an accessible toilet on the Foyer/Ground level in the amenities area in the corridor to Door 1 as well as in the Convention Centre.
Change Table There is a baby’s change table in the accessible toilet.
Hearing Impaired Approximately 80% of the Theatre auditorium and Theatre Foyer is equipped with an induction hearing loop compatible with T-Switch hearing aids suitable for musicals and concerts which have the sound desk in the auditorium. Please note it is not available in rows A, B or C due to the close proximity to the stage and speakers.
Companion Cards Dubbo Regional Theatre is affiliated with the Companion Card program. The Companion Card program is a not-for-profit program funded by the NSW Government. A Companion Card is for people with significant and permanent disability that need a carer with them at all times to participate in community based activities. When the card holder buys a ticket for themselves through the Box Office, their companion will receive a complimentary ticket. This program demonstrates DRTCC's commitment to social inclusion and community and cultural access for people with a disability. Please note that an external hirer of the theatre may opt out of this program for their show. Please check the website for details.
Sensory Sensitive Please let Box Office staff know if you, or someone you know, would like to attend the Theatre but feel unsure and overwhelmed at the prospect. We have a Social Story that explains in easy-to-understand language what to expect on your visit to the Theatre. We are happy to offer a free customised 'familiarity' tour of the foyer, auditorium and amenities when there are no events on and the theatre is quiet. This is an ideal way to become comfortable in the venue before returning to see a show.
For some shows, particularly family and youth shows, there are relaxed performances. This means the theatre lighting is raised a little during the show, loud sounds are reduced and Door 2 and 3 are open for those who need a little break from the performance. Please check the website for shows listing this option.
Social Story A social story is a tool that helps individuals better understand the world around them so they can plan for a positive experience – especially if they are going to a place that is unfamiliar to them. Social stories help individuals know what to expect and what to do in unfamiliar situations by walking them through the experience. They are often used by individuals on the autism spectrum, children with sensory needs or those with other requirements. Download a copy of our social story here.
Guide Dogs Service dogs are welcome at Dubbo Regional Theatre. If you require information on bringing your service dog into the Venue, please contact us at drtcc@dubbo.nsw.gov.au or 02 6801 4378.
Following the event, you will receive a post-event patron survey. We welcome your feedback on what we do well, not so well and any other improvements and features you would like to see. Alternatively, you can contact the friendly Box Office team on drtcc@dubbo.nsw.gov.au or phone 02 6801 4378. Thank you.