Audio Description at Van Gogh Alive
We are always striving to provide the best facilities for our customers that require assistance and hope that this information will ensure you get the most out of your visit to Van Gogh Alive.
Below is an informative audio guide detailing everything you need to know about your visit, our safety measures, as well as background information on Van Gogh and the exhibition.
Can’t find what you are looking for? Contact our friendly Access advisors on 0121 689 1060, who can also help you with any further queries you may have. We look forward to welcoming you to Birmingham Hippodrome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Van Gogh Alive?
Van Gogh Alive is not an art exhibition in the traditional sense. It is an immersive multimedia art experience which combines high definition projections of Van Gogh’s paintings with digital surround sound. Imagery and animations are projected at a scale that offers visitors the ability to see the details of the artist’s work like never before. More than 3,000 images transform each surface. However, there are no physical original works by Vincent Van Gogh on display.
Is the experience easily accessible?
The whole experience is set out over three floors, as detailed in the Audio Guide above. Both stepped access with guiding handrails and a lift are available. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout but may prefer to avoid being into the Sensory4 gallery.
What can I expect from the AD experience?
You will be offered a pair of stethoscope style headphones, through which a live audio descriptive guide will be given, in order not to disturb or interrupt the experience for other visitors. Your audio describer, Jonathan Nash, will be on-hand from arrival to answer any questions or concerns.
Will there be a touch tour?
There are touch tours on the following dates:
Sun 27 Jun 11am, 1pm, 3.30pm
Tue 29 Jun 3pm
As part of the experience on dedicated Audio Described sessions, there is a three dimensional representation of one of Van Gogh’s famous paintings, which you are invited to enter and explore. We will meet you at the Accessible & Step Free Entrance on Hurst Street and guide you down to the Touch Tour location, before entering the Sensory4 immersive experience.
Is there somewhere for my assistance dog to rest?
Unfortunately due to reduced space available in the theatre, and adhering to Covid-safe measures, we are not able to provide a space outside the Sensory4 immersive experience for dogs to rest. We are still able to provide bowls of water. Please be aware the soundtrack in the main Sensory4 gallery can be quite loud.
Do I need to wear a mask?
The current government guidelines still apply, and so masks should be worn, unless you have a specific exemption. Specific COVID-19 safe guidance is available in the Audio Guide above.
Is there a discount for my companion / support worker?
There are 2 for 1 tickets available where a carer or companion is required, to all sessions. This concession is available via Birmingham Hippodrome’s Access Line on 0121 689 1060. There is also an Access discount for those that do not require a companion during their visit which is available online. All ticket discounts are subject to availability.
Will staff members still be able to guide me?
The Visitor Service Assistants (VSAs) will be on hand if you attend without a companion. They too will wear masks and adhere to hand washing and sanitising regulations.
As per current guidelines, they will assist you in maintaining social distancing with others and will only guide for short periods, where required. This means you may be offered a bench seat within the Sensory4 gallery.
How much time do I need to see the experience?
Individual visit times will vary, but most visitors can anticipate spending 60 – 90 minutes. The main feature of the exhibition lasts approximately 45 minutes.
When should I arrive?
You should plan to arrive about 15 minutes prior to the time printed on your ticket. Please arrive within the entry times displayed on your ticket. Due to the popularity of the experience we may not be able to accommodate you if you arrive later than your ticket session.
Can I access with a stroller or wheelchair?
Yes, the venue is suitable for strollers and is wheelchair accessible. Please contact the venue on or email info@birminghamhippodrome.com if you have specific questions on accessibility.
Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, the exhibition has been designed to appeal to all ages. There is no minimum age to visit the exhibition. Children under 5 years old are admitted FREE of charge when accompanied by an Adult. They still need a ticket so we can manage numbers safely.
Are food and drink available inside the experience? Am I allowed to bring my own?
Yes, there are opportunities to buy food and drink before and after the experience in the Café on Level 3. Unfortunately, no outside food or beverage will be allowed inside the venue.
Can I bring in bags? What are the prohibited items?
Bag checks will be carried out before you enter the experience. No cloakroom will be provided so all bags and items must be carried with you inside the exhibition. We therefore recommend bringing small, easy to carry bags
Can my tickets be exchanged, modified or refunded?
All bookings are considered confirmed and final at the time they are made. Should any show date be impacted by COVID-19, tickets may be fully refunded or exchanged.
If you are self-isolating because of COVID-19, you will be eligible to transfer your ticket to another available date.
Is my ticket valid for another day?
Tickets are purchased for a specific time slot and will not be valid for entry on another day or time. This is required so we can ensure a limited number of visitors within the venue, and to offer you the most memorable and safe experience.
We cannot guarantee access to the experience outside the hours indicated on your ticket.