Studio 1 Accessibility
Studio 1 is a community that understands the unique growth that occurs when a community comes together to do something bigger than the individuals themselves. They build this community through compassionate inclusion, a spirit of empowerment, and the preservation of a theatre environment that celebrates the best in people.
Since its inception, Studio 1 has consistently looked for ways to make theatre more accessible for the diverse community in Alamance County and the surrounding areas. Below is some information about the ways in which Studio 1 is working to make our theater more accessible for audience members and participants.
If you are registering for any of our classes, please share any specific accommodations and/or student needs. Studio 1 staff will follow up to discuss student needs and our capacity for support.
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY
Thanks to our flexible seating, all of our performances are wheelchair accessible. When purchasing a ticket to a performance, please enter wheelchair accommodation requests in the “Comments” section of the checkout page. Be sure to specify the number of individuals in wheelchairs as well as the number of companions, to better assist our box office staff and help us prepare for your visit.
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETATION
Studio 1 is working towards having one performance of each of our MainStage shows be American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreted. ASL Interpreted performances will be clearly designated on our ticketing page. ASL interpretation of theatrical performances requires specially trained interpreters and rehearsal time.
One of our MainStage productions is our ASL shadowed production. This production brings ASL interpreters onstage as part of the storytelling. Interns from UNC Greensboro’s interpreting program serve as the interpreters and co-storytellers alongside the actors. The interpreters are brought onstage as part of the actions, instead of being off to the side. Every performance of the ASL shadowed production is interpreted and accessible for Deaf and hard of hearing audiences.
For either the ASL Interpreted performance of a MainStage show or the ASL Shadowed Production, please share in the “Comments” section of the ticketing checkout page how many audience members will need to be seated in chairs accessible to the interpreters.
CONTENT WARNINGS
The advertising for each of our productions will feature content warnings. Content warnings might be for strong language, thematic content, or use of special effects such as strobe, fog, or prop weapons. We strive to make sure that our audiences feel informed and safe within our theater, though ultimately each patron is responsible for deciding whether the show is appropriate for them.
SENSORY-SENSITIVE PERFORMANCES
Each season, Studio 1 chooses at least one production for which we offer a sensory-sensitive performance. We invite individuals and their families with sensory sensitivities to attend a show designed to make them feel welcome, included, comfortable, and part of the Studio 1 family.
The sensory-sensitive performance is provided to the public free of charge, but donations are accepted. Tickets for the sensory-sensitive performances should be reserved through the box office. Specific dates for sensory-sensitive performances will be announced for the relevant productions.
To provide a supportive and welcoming environment for children and families, sensory-sensitive performances include:
- Reduction of loud or jarring sounds
- Reductions in flashing or strobe lights
- House lights remain only dimly throughout the performance
- Audience members are free to talk or move during the show as needed
- Introduction to any “scary” or “loud” characters and actors before the show
- Designated “Take a Break Space”
SIDE-BY-SIDE THEATRE:
Studio 1’s Side by Side program offers arts participation opportunities that prioritize individuals with disabilities or special needs. We currently offer:
- ASL Shadowed productions: The ASL shadowed productions bring ASL interpreters onstage as part of the storytelling, making theatre more accessible for deaf and hard of hearing audiences. In addition to interpreters shadowing hearing actors, the cast includes deaf actors who sign their lines, and the actor who shadows them speaks their lines.
- Side by Side Shorts: The Shorts is a production of short skits performed by people of all ages and physical and mental abilities. The rehearsals and the production calendar are shorter than traditional shows and allow time for building relationships that transcend the stage. If an actor needs special assistance to remember their lines or blocking, cast member friends become their “shadow” and assist them by standing by their side. This provides opportunities for many in the community to experience the joy of theatre in a way that honors and encourages them.