Mobility store supports Wyvern Theatre in fundraising for Mobiloo

The Hearing and Mobility Store have helped the Wyvern Theatre to fund the hire of a Mobiloo specialist mobile toilet unit for those with additional needs.

As rehearsals for Jack and the Beanstalk at the Wyvern Theatre get underway, the countdown to Swindon’s panto season is now officially on. The highly anticipated return of festive magic and mayhem sees television and dance sensation Louie Spence take to the stage alongside West End star and original SIX queen, Millie O’Connell, for 50 fun-filled performances.

As in previous years, the run will include a relaxed performance, designed for those with special educational needs or conditions such as those on the Autism Spectrum. The relaxed performance, which takes place on Friday, 10 December at 1pm, is being supported by The Hearing and Mobility Store whose contribution has also helped the theatre with their fundraising for a Mobiloo.

The Hearing and Mobility Store, who supply all aspects of mobility equipment and services from their four stores in Swindon, Wroughton, Marlborough and Bourton-on-the-Water, have stepped in to part-fund the hire of the specialist mobile toilet unit that will improve the theatre experience for many. The Mobiloo is a fully attended service that comes complete with an adult-sized changing bench and a hoist, providing those with disabilities a more accessible and dignified facility than many fixed toilets can offer them.

Hopes Hearing and Mobility Store owner, Willie McIvor said: “Being comfortable is important at any time and none more so than when at the theatre. We are pleased to help in a small way by supporting the Mobiloo hire. Perhaps the prominence and need of the Mobiloo will inspire better accessible facilities in and around Swindon and Wiltshire.”

The relaxed performance of Jack and the Beanstalk is open to everyone, but there is a relaxed attitude to noise and movement and elements of the show will be adapted to suit the setting, for example, the lights will not be fully dimmed, the auditorium doors will remain open and loud noises or ‘scary’ lighting effects may be removed. There will also be alternative activities in the theatre foyers for anyone who wishes to leave the auditorium, and audiences are permitted to bring their own food and drink to avoid any sensory disruption.

Community & Education Officer Kate Claxton said: “We’re so pleased to be able to offer this relaxed performance and with the new support from The Hearing and Mobility Store, I’m absolutely thrilled that the Mobiloo will be available for guests too. Pantomime is such a fun tradition at this time of year and it’s vital that we make it as accessible as possible for our local community.

"The relaxed performance is also the ideal showing for schools and families of young children who are particularly sensitive to loud noises or who dislike the dark. Pantomime is never about sitting still and quiet in your seats, but we appreciate that an even more relaxed attitude during this performance will be a welcome relief for many families and schools.”

Jack and the Beanstalk opens at the Wyvern Theatre on Saturday, 4 December and runs until Sunday, 2 January.

The relaxed performance takes place on Friday, 10 December at 1pm and the Mobiloo will be in place from 11.30am.

More information and tickets can be found at swindontheatres.co.uk.