Disability Futures

And so when it comes to concert venues or festival spaces–many of which are located in older buildings or take place on land that’s not typically used for music, respectively–it’s always a question as to what kind of challenges might be lurking. But too often, it’s also unclear what sorts of necessary accommodations might have been implemented. And I’m not just talking about obvious things, such as a ramp leading into a venue, or a working elevator, or festival grounds that are flat enough to traverse. It’s also important to think about having an accessible bathroom that’s large enough to accommodate a wheelchair, or a bathroom that’s not down (or up) a flight of stairs; it’s having the option to request a sign language interpreter; it’s having an unobstructed view of the stage that won’t be blocked if people stand up in front of you; or it’s having a chair available away from jostling crowds. It’s even having a well-lit pathway to and from the parking lots, or (in the winter) salted sidewalks and snow cleared off from close drop-off points. These things aren’t necessarily top-of-mind when most people plan to enjoy live music, but for many people with disabilities, they’re crucial elements to having a safe, enjoyable experience.