The ADA was drafted to achieve inclusion, not merely accommodation. It is meant to encourage diversity, not merely tolerate it. The mission of every cultural institution, especially those where art is shared in performance to an audience, can and should include a concerted effort to reach people having as many varied experiences and perspectives as possible.
The ADA and Building Codes provide guidance for minimum ADA accommodations for the audience. After a review of basic principles, this course will go into details for implementing these accommodations in a variety of settings. Further we will explore practical steps that go beyond the code and enhance the experience for all. Finally, suggestions to make creative work backstage more accessible to persons with disabilities will be discussed.
Explore how ADA can positively impact your performance space in this seminar.
1 LU/HSW
Learning Objectives
- Learner will acquire a knowledge of the current techniques used to comply with the ADA in the design of public assembly venue audience chambers.
- Learner will be directed to, and observe successful applications of, ADA-related codes and standards currently in use in public assembly venues.
- We will reveal ways in which accessibility can be enhanced through design collaboration, above and beyond the letter of the ADA, to the benefit of the audience and theatre owners.
- Opportunities to work backstage have traditionally been very limited. We will show how technological developments and architectural accommodations can remove some of these barriers and expand these opportunities.