The Lowry in Salford Quays has announced that it is to make more of its visual and performing arts programme more accessible to people with dementia.
This will entail special "dementia friendly" performances of visiting productions that will tailor elements such as lighting, sound and seat allocation to people with conditions related to dementia as well as special gallery tours of the Lowry Favourites exhibition tailored to their needs.
The Lowry will host an open day in association with Salford Dementia Action Alliance on 21 May, open to the public, for people living with dementia to learn more about the venue's plans and to give views on other actions it could take to help them.
Julia Fawcett OBE, chief executive of The Lowry, said: "Since we opened in 2000, it has been our mission to bring the very best of the arts to Salford and the North West. In doing so, we welcome a whole range of audiences to the building—all of which have slightly different access requirements.
"When we were approached by the Salford Dementia Action Alliance about joining the scheme, it was something we agreed without hesitation. We already have a range of policies in place to cater for people with access needs—including complimentary theatre tickets to essential carers—and working to become an official 'Dementia Friendly' venue is another step we can take on that path.
“I look forward to meeting with some of our patrons at the open day and hearing from them suggestions of how we can improve the visitor experience for those living with dementia."