Frequently Asked Questions

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How difficult is it to find accommodation on Orkney during the Festival?

Many people travel to visit the Festival, and accommodation is limited. It is advisable to book early. Hiring a car can sometimes provide more options. A range of hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodations are available.

Do you have a Box Office?

Yes. The St Magnus International Festival Box Office is located at 13 Albert Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1HP. Tickets can be booked online, by phone, or by emailing boxoffice@stmagnusfestival.com.

Who qualifies for concession tickets?

Concession tickets are available for school children, full-time students, and registered unemployed individuals.

Can I exchange or refund tickets?

Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged after purchase.

Does wheelchair seating for Festival performances need to be booked in advance?

Yes. All venues have limited wheelchair-accessible seating, and these spaces are usually booked quickly once tickets go on sale.

Do people accompanying wheelchair users need to pay for a ticket?

No. Each wheelchair user is entitled to one complimentary seat for a companion.

Can I join a waiting list for Festival tickets?

The Festival does not operate an official waiting list, but it does facilitate a limited service to connect those looking for tickets with those who may have extras.

When are brochures available to the public?

Brochures are typically available by early April each year.

Does the Festival provide transport to performances?

Generally, no. However, when transport is available, it can be booked alongside performance tickets. Most events take place in Kirkwall or Stromness, which are 15 miles (30 minutes) apart. Regular daytime bus services operate on weekdays and weekends. Details are available at VisitScotland Information Centres in Kirkwall and Stromness.

Can the Festival help with finding accommodation?

No. Orkney.com provides a comprehensive accommodation service. It is strongly recommended to book well in advance as Orkney is particularly busy during the Festival.

Can I collect my Festival tickets from the Box Office?

Our preferred method is to post tickets in advance. However, tickets can also be collected from the Box Office during opening hours. Alternatively, tickets can be printed at home or used as e-tickets. If reprinting is necessary, contact boxoffice@stmagnusfestival.com or call 01856 871445.

What if I lose my tickets or forget to bring them?

If tickets are lost or forgotten, duplicates can be issued at the Box Office during normal opening hours. However, we encourage patrons to take good care of their tickets.

What happens if I am late for a performance?

Latecomers will only be admitted during an appropriate break in the performance.

Can I take photographs or video during performances?

No. The use of photographic and video recording equipment is prohibited during performances. Mobile phones must be switched off.

What does a Rover Ticket grant access to?

A Rover Ticket provides access to all online virtual Festival content but does not allow entry to live events.

What measures are in place for COVID-19 safety?

Please refer to our COVID-19 Safety page for full details.

How do I book tickets?

Online: Follow the "TO BUY" link on our website.

Phone: Call 01856 871445.

In-Person: Visit the St Magnus Festival Box Office at 13 Albert Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1HP.

On the Door: Tickets may be available for unsold-out performances.  For general inquiries, email boxoffice@stmagnusfestival.com.

What are the pricing and seating choices?

The Festival offers banded ticket prices for many events to provide greater choice. Lower-priced tickets may be for unreserved seating or seats with limited views. In St Magnus Cathedral, some seats have no view. Unreserved seating is available from the start of ticket sales.

What if I need special requirements or assistance?

If you have special seating requirements or accessibility needs, contact the Festival Office at 01856 871445 or email boxoffice@stmagnusfestival.com. We will do our best to accommodate requests.

What about catering within events?

Festival food may contain or come into contact with allergens such as dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, soy, and wheat.

What happens if a performance is cancelLed?

The Festival reserves the right to cancel a performance due to exceptional circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, ticket holders will be offered an alternative performance or a refund.
 

 

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