● Access + Inclusion

Access + Inclusion at Shopfront

We strive to ensure our programs and performances provide a safe, welcoming environment for those attending. It is our aim to offer the best support for anyone engaging with us and we understand that can mean different things for different people. We are always happy to work with you, to achieve what is best for you!

Access at Shopfront

● Relaxed Performance

At Shopfront Arts Co-op, we offer relaxed performances for our productions, but what exactly does this mean? 

Our relaxed performances have a supportive atmosphere and are considered less formal than a traditional theatre experience. During the relaxed performance, the following will be in place: 

  • We will have a relaxed attitude towards noise in the auditorium. You are allowed to stand up, leave, make noise and clap 

  • You are free to leave and re-enter at any point during the performance. The houselights will remain on at a low level to allow visibility for you to make your way safely in/out of the performance space 

  • We will provide a ‘chill out’ space which will be available before, during and after the performance. Our friendly Front of House staff can help direct you to this space 

  • We will have free-to-borrow sensory equipment and ear defenders available for patrons. Front of House staff can direct you to these resources

  • The sound and lighting for the production will be reduced 

  • There will be no pyrotechnics or strobe lighting used

Ahead of this performance a Visual Story booklet will be available.

Who can attend a relaxed performance? 

Anyone is welcome to attend a relaxed performance, but autistic audience members and members with sensory sensitivity, communication or learning disability may find the experience beneficial. 

Is there any support for me before I attend the show? 

Yes! We are always happy to speak with our audience members to discuss their access needs and requirements before they attend Shopfront.  

Please phone Shopfront on +61 02 95488 3948 or email hello@shopfront.org.au  

AUSLAN

Minimum of one AUSLAN interpreted and one Relaxed Performance per season!

 2026 Season

Our Relaxed Performances will take place on the Sunday of each season and visual stories will be available in advance.

● Financial Support

Scholarships

In 2026, we are committed to working with parents and Young People to ensure no Shopfront member misses out. If you would like to get in contact with us about organising a possible scholarship to cover some or all of your workshop fees, please contact our Workshops Coordinator, Jasper at jasper.lee-lindsay@shopfront.org.au

Creative Kids

Shopfront Arts Co-op is a registered Creative Kids provider. Contact us to use your Creative Kids vouchers with us!

NDIS

At present, Shopfront services may be claimed for self-managed and plan managed NDIS funds. Contact us for more information.

● Wellness

Workshops at Shopfront are delivered by experienced arts facilitators, many of whom are trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid. We aim to create a safe environment to improve mental health and well-being for participants aged 8-26years through creative expression and exploration.

Our venue offers break out rooms and quiet spaces during workshop hours, ensuring our members have somewhere to go if they need a little time out.

Shopfront is Youth Mental Health First Aid Accredited

Many of our Shopfront staff are accredited Youth Mental Health First Aiders, and are available for you to talk to. Youth Mental Health First Aid is not professional mental health care, but we are equipped and willing to provide you with all the tools to access help if you need it, as well as be a compassionate listener if you want to talk.

Venue Walkthrough Video

Want to know what our venue is like before visiting? Take a look!