CAPA addresses need for sensory-inclusive features at several theaters
Sensory needs are how people receive and respond to information from their environments, including what they see, hear, smell, feel and taste.
Because every person processes information differently, they have different sensory needs.
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Understanding these needs helps create environments where everyone feels comfortable, which is especially important for those with extra sensitivities.
Acknowledging this, Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) has implemented an initiative to remedy accessibility challenges in its venues to enhance the arts experience for people with sensory needs.
Under the continual improvement program "Project Access," CAPA's venues have all become certified with KultureCity , a nonprofit group promoting sensory accessibility, acceptance and inclusivity.
The certified sites are the Ohio Theatre , Palace Theatre , Southern Theatre , Lincoln Theatre, McCoy Center for the Arts and the Riffe Center's Davidson Theatre and Studio Theatres.
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Through KultureCity's Sensory Inclusive Initiative, CAPA staff received training and resources to better accommodate patrons with sensory sensitivities. Certification means staff will receive ongoing training and each venue is included on the KultureCity app.
Guests at CAPA theaters will notice new signs designating quiet areas, headphone zones and sensory-inclusive areas.
Also, free sensory bags filled with fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones and feeling thermometers are available at all performances. Offered on a first-come, first-served basis, the bags are intended for patrons of any age.
Future plans include continuing to evaluate quiet spaces in the theaters, adding KultureCity signage in more theaters and identifying the best ASL seating areas.
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Other expansions at CAPA's theaters include adding an all-gender/gender-inclusive restroom, universal changing tables and two nursing rooms at the Ohio Theatre, and making more booster seats available in the Ohio, Palace, Southern and Davidson theaters.
For more information on KultureCity at CAPA venues, download the KultureCity app at kulturecity.org/app and search by venue name.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: CAPA offers sensory-inclusive features at all of its venues
