Coming to The Place Outdoors? Take a look at these FAQ’s for everything you need to know for a great evening in our outdoor theatre space.
What are the seating arrangements?
We have a small selection of outdoor chairs, but please do bring your own chairs, blankets or cushions to sit on. Our outdoor shows may have different seating set ups, so please follow the guidance from volunteers when you arrive on site. They will be able to guide you to the relevant locations to set up your seating, or help you access the seating we have available.
How accessible is the space for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues?
Our outdoor venue is used as our overflow car park in the Winter months; it is a paved area surrounded by trees. There is free parking directly opposite, including 3 spaces for Blue Badge holders, approx. 30m from the performance area. Terrain to travel across – paved access road between car park & Outdoor venue.
The space is flat, on one level with a wide, open gateway to access. The seating configuration is flexible. Toilets (including an accessible toilet) are located inside the venue and there is a gentle ramp (no steps) to access the building through double doors.
Where are the toilet facilities?
The toilets inside the venue will be open for audience members to use – it is a short walk into the venue.
Baby change and accessible toilets located inside the venue, directly opposite the performance space, approx. 30m away.
Where can I park?
Free parking is available in the main theatre car park situated opposite the outdoor space. We encourage all those who can to consider travelling to the venue by foot, or by bicycle, instead of driving. We ask that all drivers take extra care when entering and leaving the car park as there will be more pedestrian traffic around the car parks than standard.
To ensure minimal disruption to the performance, please ensure you arrive and have parked at least 10 mins before the start of the performance.
Are shows going to have an interval?
Depending on the length of the show, some will have an interval and some will not. This information will be available with the details about the show when you book online.
Will I be able to hear the performance?
If you are hard of hearing, please let us know when booking your ticket using the special comments facility and arrive early enough to sit near the front. Make yourself known to front of house staff who will help to seat you accordingly.
Will I get a good view?
Chairs are not fixed and we will be able to arrange in different configurations to ensure everyone can see.
What happens in the event of bad weather?
We anticipate the traditional English summer, so, in the event of rain, shows will go ahead. Should the weather be considered high risk, (e.g. very high winds; storms; very heavy and continuous rain or hail) then the show will be initially held (if the weather shows signs of improving), or moved indoors to our main theatre space. This decision will be made jointly by the Duty Manager at The Place Bedford, and the artistic company presenting the show.
If it rains and the show can still go ahead (where this is agreed by the Duty Manager and company presenting the show), your ticket will not be refunded if you choose not to attend. Most of our outdoor shows have been made with the British summer weather in mind.
Can I bring an umbrella?
Please do not bring an umbrella as this could obscure the view for other audience members. We do recommend bringing a hat on especially sunny days.
Are all tickets digital – do I need to print anything out?
Tickets will be as standard for our live events. We will be scanning the barcode/QR code on your tickets at the door. We can do this from your phone screen, so please consider the environment before you print off your tickets at home. Should you be unable to find your digital ticket or print off, don’t worry, the team at Box Office will have access to the system to check your booking on the door.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive in good time before the start of the performance/event you are attending – we suggest around 20-30 minutes before so that you can get settled and longer if you wish to order drinks. The site and bar will be open 1 hour before the start of evening events.
Will there be provision of food and drink at the venue and what will it be?
The bar will be open for all performances and there will be service to your seat. Food will be available on Friday and Saturday evenings only initially. Food will have to be ordered when you book tickets and the menu will be on the website to enable you to choose in advance
Can I bring a picnic?
For most of our outdoor events we would suggest not bringing food. Small picnics may be possible for a music event but please check with the venue beforehand so we can advise. We have a bar selling snacks and ice cream.
Can I order food (e.g.pizza) to be delivered?
No – as this could cause disruption to the event.