How do GVT programs make it possible for community members with disabilities to participate?

Our facility is fully ADA compliant. We are accessible to persons with disabilities both as audience members and as staff. The Hollowell Theatre, the Daywood Lobby, our rehearsal hall, offices and scene shop are all located on one level. Our restrooms are fully accessible both in the lobby and backstage. We also provide special comfortable chairs without arms for patrons who do not fit our regular seating, and we provide special seating for small children.

Mobility disabilities? We have floor level seating and can remove seats for wheelchairs. We can provide a wheelchair, special parking, and a wheelchair ramp.

Visual disabilities? We can provide large print scripts before the performance, or we can provide a script for someone to read to them. We can also provide large print programs upon request.

Hearing disabilities? We have Assisted Listening Devices, and we can provide written scripts and enlarged scripts and programs. We provide sign language interpreters for specific performances upon request.   

Speech disabilities? Normally speech disabilities alone are not barriers to enjoying a theatrical production for audience members. In our children’s classes, we often work with children who stutter or have speech impediments. Theatre artists trained in voice production and articulation work individually with these students, and we have had some success in helping children with stuttering problems by including them in singing activities.

Learning disabilities? We have many learning disabled people who enjoy our shows with other audience members, and we often have learning disabled children participate in our drama programs for youth. We provide teaching assistance to give these students individual attention. We also have some volunteers who have specific training in learning disabilities that we can call upon for specific situations. We provide extra help in classes to dyslexic children so they can fully participate in the classes. A synopsis of the plays is given in advance, as well as in the program.

Developmental disabilities? Developmentally disabled adults and children enjoy our show and participate in our youth programs. We provide teaching assistance when necessary, advance information about the play, and special seating arrangements.