Law firm helps open up ‘Chitty’

West Yorkshire Playhouse’s Christmas show Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will have dementia- friendly and sign language performances in the New Year.

There will also be audio described and captioned performances of the five-star rated show in January.

These have been made possible by the support of Irwin Mitchell solicitors, access partners of the Playhouse.

The Playhouse aims to attract the widest possible audience. In 2015 it has won a series of prizes for its outreach work.

The theatre won The Alzheimer’s Society Award for best dementia friendly project, an innovation prize in the National Dementia Care Awards and best mental health worker in the YEP’s Best of Health Awards.

Playhouse Artistic Director James Brining said: “We are incredibly proud of the awards we’ve won in 2015, acknowledging the pioneering work the company has been involved in taking theatre right out into the community.

“Whatever you choose to come and see at the theatre, you’ll feel right at home.” Paula Myers, a partner at Irwin Mitchell, said: “Through our work on behalf of families with children with disabilities, we have long campaigned on accessibility and to ensure that vulnerable members of society are able to enjoy the experiences that many take for granted. We have been a long-term partner of West Yorkshire Playhouse and have seen first-hand the fantastic work which is done on these special performances.

“We are delighted to be able to play our part and ensure the experience of visiting the theatre is open to everyone over the Christmas period.” Chitty Chitty Bang Bang runs until January 30.

See www.wyp.org.uk for more information.