A standing ovation for fresh theatre rules?

Legislation set out in the European Accessibility Act requires public entertainment venues to improve access and facilities for individuals with disabilities. 

The deadline for meeting these requirements is 28 June 2025, but what impact will this have on the UK media and entertainment market?

While the UK is no longer a member of the European Union and is not obliged to implement its directives, it must still comply with local statutes such as the Equality Act 2010 and building regulations, as well as consumer demand.  

According to a survey conducted by the Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre last year, one in five of 65 theatre venues across the UK requires an investment of at least £5m each in the next 10 years just to continue current operations. Without this, it’s projected that nearly 40% of venues risk closure, and 40% will become too unsafe to use.

Of course, the EAA will impact Europe, and UK venues that cater to European Union customers, especially London theatres, may look to align.

More inclusive

UK accessibility laws and EAA legislation essentially concur that public entertainment venues should enable:

• Physical accessibility. Ensure step-free access, wheelchair seating, accessible toilets, hearing assistance, high-contrast signs and braille where possible. Quiet spaces for neurodivergent guests or those with sensory issues.
• Assistive technologies. Implement hearing loops, captioning services, and audio descriptions for the visually impaired.
• Digital accessibility. Websites, ticketing systems, and online information must comply with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines to ensure ease of use for people with visual or motor impairments.
• Staff training. Front-of-house and technical staff should receive training on assisting those with disabilities and inclusive communications, such as large print, braille, audio versions of programs, and safety information.

Compliance with these requirements may require a considerable investment of both time and money in an industry where many theatres are already struggling to survive.

According to a survey conducted by the Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre last year, one in five of 65 theatre venues across the UK requires an investment of at least £5m each in the next 10 years just to continue current operations. 

Without this, it’s projected that nearly 40% of venues risk closure, and 40% will become too unsafe to use.

Additionally, carrying out the necessary adaptations to old, antiquated buildings will be challenging, particularly on those that are listed, of which there are many. Smaller independent venues might also struggle to fund the costs.

Martyn’s Law

Named after Martyn Hett, who tragically died in the Manchester Arena attack, Martyn’s Law will introduce stricter security for all public venues, including theatres. 

The law will require venues to develop risk assessments and preparedness plans to respond effectively to terrorist threats.

Theatres should start implementing robust security measures to align with the anticipated requirements, which will inevitably include:

• Risk assessments. Thorough venue security reviews, identifying vulnerabilities and developing mitigation strategies.
• Staff training. All employees, including front-of-house, security personnel, and production teams, must be trained to recognise and respond to potential threats.
• Emergency response planning. Establish clear evacuation procedures and ensure all staff members are familiar with them.
• Enhanced security measures. Consider bag checks, CCTV monitoring, and increased security personnel presence.

There is a risk that overly strict security procedures could deter audiences, which makes it essential to implement measures that are effective yet unobtrusive. 

Again, there could be logistical issues for older buildings and budgetary constraints for smaller venues. However, Martyn’s Law is coming and by thinking, planning and acting now, theatres will avoid last-minute compliance issues and, crucially, safeguard their audiences and staff.

In theory, increasing accessibility to live performances will expand the potential audience, improve revenue, and reinforce inclusivity as a core industry value. This is to be applauded.