Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Inc. was incorporated in 1956. In 1959 President Dwight D. Eisenhower broke ground for the first building, Avery Fisher Hall (originally called Philharmonic Hall). Since then, eight more buildings have been erected. The campus is now home to 12 performing arts-related organizations.
Some Accessibility
From the beginning, wheelchair seating and accessible bathrooms were part of the architectural plans. But, it’s interesting to note that it wasn’t until 1985 that the Department of Programs and Services for People with Disabilities was established at the Center.
Since its inception, the department has encouraged people with disabilities to become involved in the Center’s activities. Staff members get intensive sensitivity training, and strive to find new ways to make services and performances accessible. An outreach program keeps the community aware of services offered. Another program brings performances to hospitals and nursing homes. A third offers children the opportunity to attend performances and meet artists of different kinds.
Wheelchair Incident
Despite all these efforts, I had a problem inside Avery Fisher Hall. My family and I were escorted to seats we were told were wheelchair friendly. This turned out to mean that I could either sit in my wheelchair in an empty space some distance away, or transfer into a seat and have my chair taken outside the auditorium.
I transferred and pulled my chair next to me in the aisle. A heated argument ensued. I was told I was creating a fire hazard. I explained that, in the event of an emergency, I needed my wheelchair near me. Would staff members think to bring it while other patrons were rushing out? Security officers threatened to remove me.
Finally, during intermission, one bright young man removed a seat at the end of the aisle my family occupied. I was now able to park next to my mother. After the show, staff members apologized, explaining that they were new and no one had informed them of the removable seat.
I suspect my incident was a rarity. I’ve since spoken to the director of the Department of Program and Services for People with Disabilities, Bobbi Wailes, who profusely apologized for my troubles. I’ve learned that most auditoriums have the ADA prescribed number of removable seats (Alice Tully Hall is currently undergoing reconstruction and the New York State Theater has an empty space for wheelchairs in the orchestra section).
For every performance, large-print and Braille programs are available. And, assistive listening devices are available throughout the campus. For people who wish a tour of Lincoln Center, sign language interpreters and a map of the campus, in Braille, are available.
A visit to Lincoln Center should be on everyone’s to-do list.
To order tickets, contact the box office (212-875-5030). For best results, confirm reservations the day before. Mention your seat number, so the staff can be notified if a seat removal is needed. Then log onto the website. Check for construction details, because the Center is undergoing a major renovation.
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