Barrier-free access to event venues is not only a matter of fairness for artists with disabilities, but also a basic prerequisite for equal artistic participation. This concerns not only access for the audience, but also, and in particular, working conditions for the performers themselves.
Many artists with disabilities rely on support during their work—whether physical, communicative or organisational. It is therefore essential to clarify in advance who is responsible for organising, implementing and financing assistance and accommodations. It is also advisable to ask the artists in question if they have an access rider (link).
To make performances and working conditions truly inclusive, the following aspects should be considered during the planning process:
Spatial accessibility
- Are the stage, rehearsal rooms, backstage areas, toilets and showers accessible?
- Is the stage equipped with ramps or lifts suitable for heavy electric wheelchairs?
- Are there accessible workstations for lighting or sound if artists are responsible for these tasks?
- Is there sufficient space for wheelchairs, walking aids and other technical aids?
- Can temporary structural adjustments, such as mobile ramps, platform lifts or lifting ramps, be provided if necessary?
- Are quiet rooms available for artists with sensory sensitivities, sensory overload or chronic fatigue?
- How is the air quality? Are FFP2 masks used or provided to protect vulnerable people?
- Are there accessible parking spaces or shuttle services for artists who arrive with mobility aids?
- Does the venue's emergency plan also take people with disabilities into account (evacuation with evacuation aids, light signals, trained staff)?
If certain areas are not accessible, it is important to provide an accurate description of the premises so that those affected can assess the situation (e.g. width of doors, presence of automatic doors, presence of paving stones, number of steps, etc.).
Assistance and communication
- Is the organisation of personal assistance for mobility and organisational processes guaranteed?
- Are fees and travel expenses calculated to cover the cost of assistants and barrier-free accommodation?
- Have clear communication channels been established in advance (e.g. contact persons for accessibility, technical management, production management)?
- Are rehearsal times and breaks flexible enough to accommodate health needs (e.g. fatigue or chronic illnesses)?
- Are sign language interpreters provided for rehearsals, performances and meetings?
- Is communication assistance provided, for example through Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) or closed captions?
- Are headsets and microphones provided that can also be used by people with limited mobility or hearing impairments?
- Are light signals used as an alternative to acoustic signals during breaks or safety announcements, for example?
- Are texts such as contracts, tenders or programmes available in simple or easy language?
- Will trigger warnings for content be given in writing or verbally?
- Is it possible to bring service dogs, and are there places for them to retreat to?
- If food is provided: are allergens labelled? Are gluten-free, lactose-free and vegan options available?
- Does the team include awareness officers or trained staff who can be contacted about accessibility and inclusion issues?
Further information
A primer on working with disabled group members
https://promiseandpractice.art/
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