Accessibility tickets refer to accommodations or modifications made to events, venues, services, and programs to make them more accessible to people with disabilities. The goal of accessibility tickets is to remove barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in activities. This allows people of all abilities to enjoy the same opportunities for recreation, education, employment and more.
Why are accessibility tickets needed?
Accessibility tickets help provide equitable access to events and services that have historically excluded or failed to consider people with disabilities. Some examples of barriers addressed by accessibility tickets include:
- Mobility disabilities – Accessible seating and pathways for wheelchair users
- Blindness or low vision – Audio description, braille, or large print materials
- Deafness or hard of hearing – Sign language interpreters, captioning
- Cognitive disabilities – Quiet spaces, sensory guides, adjusted programming
- Mental health disabilities – Relaxed performances, companion tickets
Providing accommodations through accessibility tickets helps create an inclusive environment where people with disabilities can participate without facing physical, communication, or attitudinal barriers.
Types of accessibility tickets
There are various types of accessibility tickets available depending on the venue or event. Some common examples include:
Accessible seating
Accessible seating has clear lines of sight and ample leg room for wheelchair users or people who have limited mobility. This seating is often located near accessible restrooms and entrances/exits. Accessible seating may be available for wheelchair users and their companions.
Audio description
Audio description provides a live narration of visual elements, like performances and presentations, for blind or low vision patrons. Audio description headsets allow users to listen to a narrator explain actions, sets, costumes and other visual components.
ASL interpretation
Sign language interpretation enables people who are Deaf or hard of hearing to access spoken information. Interpreted performances and events have qualified sign language interpreters located in sight lines of Deaf patrons.
Assistive listening devices
Venues offer assistive listening systems like headsets or receivers to amplify sound for people with hearing impairments. Devices like hearing induction loops transmit signals directly to hearing aids equipped with telecoils.
Captioning
Display screens show real-time captions of dialog, lyrics, announcements and other audio content. Open or closed captioning helps people with hearing loss follow along with programming.
Sensory-friendly options
Some venues offer sensory-friendly options for patrons with autism, PTSD or other sensory sensitivities. Adjustments may include relaxed lighting and sound, designated quiet areas, and tools like fidgets or headphones.
Companion tickets
People with disabilities may purchase a companion ticket for a support person to accompany them at no additional charge. Companions can assist patrons with tasks like navigation, communication and personal care.
How to get accessibility tickets
The process for obtaining accessibility tickets varies by organization. In general, the steps include:
- Contact the venue, event organizer or ticket seller directly to request accommodations.
- Provide details on your accessibility requirements.
- Provide documentation of your disability if required.
- Complete ticket reservations and confirm specifics like seat locations, interpreters, devices, etc.
- Arrive early on event day for check-in and to receive any assistive devices or services.
Many major ticket sellers allow you to select accessibility options during online ticket purchases. Venues and events that receive federal funding are required by the ADA to provide reasonable accommodations.
Accessibility resources for venues
There are many great resources available for venues and organizations looking to improve accessibility:
- ADA Checklist for Existing Facilities – An overview of accessibility requirements from the ADA National Network.
- Certified Accessible Events – A program offering accessibility event certification.
- Event Accessibility Alliance – Best practices for creating inclusive events.
- The Kennedy Center’s Office of Accessibility – Resources on inclusive arts programming.
- National Association of the Deaf – Tips for making performances deaf/hard of hearing friendly.
- The Hearing Loss Association of America – Guidance on assistive listening systems.
Finding accessible events and venues
If you are looking for accessible events and venues, some helpful resources include:
- AbleThrive – Online calendar of accessible arts and culture events.
- DisabledGo – Detailed access guides for venues across the globe.
- Enable Travel – Travel site listing accessible tours, attractions, hotels.
- Frequent Accessible Venues – Database of reviewed ADA compliant venues.
- Mobility Map – App mapping accessibility of places.
You can also look for the universal wheelchair symbol or phrases like “accessible seating available” when searching for events. Reaching out to venues directly about accommodations is also an option.
Accessibility ticket etiquette and policies
Here are some key etiquette tips and policies to keep in mind regarding accessibility tickets:
- Only purchase accessible seating if needed. Misuse reduces availability for disabled patrons.
- One companion ticket is allowed per accessibility ticket.
- Companions must accompany the accessibility ticket holder.
- documentation of disability may be required to get tickets.
- Notify venues in advance about accommodation needs.
- Arrive early to venues to allow time for accommodations.
- Accessibility ticket policies, requirements and availability vary by venue.
Following venue policies and notifying staff of your needs helps ensure a smooth experience for all. Acting courteously makes the process easier for both patrons and staff.
The future of accessibility in entertainment
There is still progress to be made, but the entertainment world is moving towards greater accessibility. Technology improvements, legal mandates, and consumer demand are driving increased options. Some innovations and trends include:
- Smart caption glasses that display real-time subtitles in the user’s field of vision.
- Phone apps to provide audio description, amplify sound, or translate sign language.
- Voice control systems and wayfinding beacons to guide blind patrons.
- Virtual queues and mobile ordering to reduce standing in lines.
- Relaxed performances with adjusted lighting/sound and dedicated quiet areas.
- 3D modeling to create tactile replicas of exhibits for blind visitors.
Collaboration with disability organizations and proactive inclusion efforts will continue advancing accessibility. Providing accommodations allows more people to enjoy arts, culture and entertainment together.
Conclusion
Accessibility tickets help create a more inclusive world where people of all abilities can participate. By removing barriers and providing accommodations, venues enable people with disabilities to enjoy concerts, plays, museums and other programming. There is still progress to be made, but increased options are emerging through innovations in technology and a commitment to equity and inclusion.