Welcoming Audiences

Part of the reason why Live & Local events are really special is because of the friendly and intimate atmosphere that can be created in a community venue.

Recognising the needs of your audience

You should aim to create an environment that is accessible and welcoming to everyone. Recognise that members of your audience will have different needs and be ready to offer help when needed. For example:

• A family with very young children may need somewhere to put a pushchair.
• A wheelchair user will need an aisle seat and may also need an adjoining seat for a helper or friend.
• An older person who has difficulty hearing may ask to sit closer to the front.

‘The travelling audience’

The majority of your audience is likely to be made up of local people, acquaintances, friends and family. However there may be audience members who are new to the community and people who have travelled, sometimes a long way, because they have a particular interest in the show.

It can be intimidating to attend an event where the rest of the audience know each other really well, so it’s really important to make sure that everyone feels welcome.

This can be a great opportunity to show off your community and your venue!

First impressions really do count: be courteous, welcoming and helpful and always remember to thank people as they leave – it adds a personal feel, which is why people come to your venue and will come back to your next show.