LIVE BROADCAST FAQs

What is a Bristol Old Vic On Screen live broadcast?

A Bristol Old Vic On Screen live broadcast is a live broadcast of a Bristol Old Vic show, direct from our stage to your screen.

We use state-of-the-art cameras and sound equipment to capture the magic and excitement of live theatre, and to send it out across the world for thousands of theatre-lovers to watch simultaneously.

Is a live broadcast the same as an on-demand recording?

A live broadcast is not the same as an on-demand recording.

At the live broadcast, you’ll be watching the show as it happens along with the actual audience in the theatre present that night – so anything could happen!

You will start and finish watching the performance at the same time as the live audience (much like watching a sports match or a live TV event) and have an interval at the same time too.

Meanwhile, on-demand shows are recorded, so you can watch them any time you want.

What time does the live broadcast begin?

The live broadcast starts at the same time as the live show in the theatre. The start time will be sent to you in your confirmation email.

We recommend you log-in and load up the screen at least 30 minutes before curtain-up. This means there will be time for you to sort out any technical issues, so you won’t miss any of the show.

Additionally, you can join us for exclusive pre-show content half an hour before the live show begins. If there is pre-show content, you will be told about it in your confirmation email.

Can I stop and start during the broadcast? 

If you stop watching the live broadcast at any point, you will miss bits of the show. Unlike watching iPlayer, for example, you can’t stop and start our live broadcasts. 

How do I book a ticket? 

Tickets are available here: bristololdvic.ticketco.events

Select the time and date of the show you’d like to watch, then choose the price you’d like to pay for your ticket (and select ‘1’ ticket from the dropdown menu) and then click PLACE YOUR ORDER.

Following the payment process after that, and you will receive a confirmation email and text message with details on how to watch the show. 

Remember: the shows are really live, so if you’re booking in advance all you’ll see for now is a clock counting down to the start of the show. 

What is a multiple viewer ticket? 

You only need one ticket per screen, so your whole household could watch the show together with just one Single Viewer ticket.

However, if you love theatre and are feeling extra supportive, we hope you will consider buying a Multiple Viewer ticket, which is (not quite) twice the price of a Single Viewer ticket.

Please note: like the Single Viewer ticket, a Multiple Viewer ticket can cannot be shared and can only be used on one ‘device’ (for example a TV or computer).

Can I share the link with other people? 

No. When you buy a ticket, you will be sent a unique link to watch the show which can be used on one device (phone, computer or TV) only. If you share it with someone else and they start watching before you, you won’t be able to watch.

Is the broadcast high quality? 

Yes. This is not a scratchy archive recording, or a low-fi zoom broadcast. Our experienced team are filming and streaming in HD, with 6 state-of-the-art cameras used to capture the show. 

Can I watch from anywhere in the world? 

Yes. The show is available wherever you are – but please note that the times are listed in UK local time, so, if you’re not in the UK, make sure you’re clear on the time difference so you don’t miss anything. 

Will the broadcast be captioned or audio described? 

Our technology doesn’t (yet) allow us to caption or audio-describe the live broadcasts, but we will be making captioned and audio-described recordings available.

How do I watch the live broadcast?

First you need a device connected to the internet. This can be a smartphone, tablet or iPad, laptop or desktop computer. For a more cinematic experience, you can always connect this to a larger screen (TV or projector) using an HDMI cable. (Check your device instructions to find out how.)

Make sure you have a strong WiFi connection and a power source for your device.

Once you have purchased your ticket, simply click the link in your confirmation email to be taken to the live broadcast screen. Now just wait for the show to start!

If you have any problems setting up, just email tickets@bristololdvic.org.uk for help.

What happens if I’m late to the live broadcast?

Much like if you’re late to a live show, you’ll have to jump in where you join and miss the first part of the show. At least you won’t have to shuffle along the row in the dark!

What happens during the interval of the live broadcast?

If the show has an interval, make sure you stay tuned for additional exclusive content to enjoy (your confirmation email will tell you what to expect)!

If you do accidentally log out or close the screen, you can simply click the link in your access email to be taken back to the live broadcast.

How long are the intervals during the live broadcasts?

If the show has an interval, it will be the same length in the live broadcast as it is in the show – so usually around 15 minutes. There will be additional exclusive content for you to enjoy, so make sure you stay tuned!

There will be a countdown on screen as the intermission comes to the end, so, make sure you’ve got your drinks and ice creams and are back in your seat to catch the second half of the show!

How does the filming of the live broadcast impact the live performance?

We use multiple state-of-the-art cameras throughout the theatre to capture the stage performances in an exciting and unique way, giving you the best view for each moment of the show.

The cameras are strategically placed so as not to impact the show, but so that you can get even closer to the action and emotion.

What happens if something goes wrong with the live broadcast?

If you have any issues accessing the live broadcast, or if something goes wrong during the broadcast that isn’t to do with power or WiFi issues, don’t hesitate to email us at tickets@bristololdvic.org.uk.