Taking a stand on seating

Standing ovations are a badge of honour for stage performers the length and breadth of the country. They love ‘em.

When they last the whole show long, however, in an all-seater venue, they bring their own problems.

Just ask Take That fan Tara Johnson who found the view of her idol Gary Barlow obscured by the excited crowd at the Sunderland Empire.

Tara, who uses a wheelchair, had a great position in the fantastic old venue ... up until the gig started.

The 35-year-old, who suffers from cerebral palsy, suddenly discovered her view blocked by fans who sprang to their feet as soon as the former Take That crooner bounded onto the stage.

Instead of seeing Gazza in all his glory, she could only catch glimpses of the star between bobbing heads as fans stood on tippy toes to see their idol.

While Tara could adjust her wheelchair to raise it up, it couldn’t go high enough.

And any attempts to ask those around her to stay seated fell on deaf ears.

There is no suggestion that the Empire has failed to comply with Health and Safety rules, but clearly there are lessons that must be learned.

There’s no use having an area for wheelchair users if those in wheelchairs in that area can’t see the show!

Tara has suggested making it a raised area to afford people a good view. It sounds like a winner, but the ball is in the court of the venue.

Thankfully, Empire bosses have asked to hear Tara’s concerns so they can evaluate the situation.

We trust a solution can be found, so that all fans in the future, whether standing on tippy toes or sitting on seats, can see their stars, erm, ‘Shine.’