Accessibility

The Gallagher Bluedorn strives to provide all people access to the arts in a welcoming environment where each person has the accommodations they need to participate actively.  Please review the information below to request services for an upcoming event.

ARTccessible
Performances designated as ARTccessible at the Gallagher Bluedorn provide American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and audio description. These shows are identified by the three-point symbol, representing the three A’s of “Accommodations Make Access to Arts Possible.”

We are committed to creating a space where all patrons feel welcome and included. Select Artist Series performances designated as ARTccessible offer ASL interpretation and audio description, while Kaleidoscope Youth Series ARTccessible shows are also sensory-friendly, with ASL and audio description available upon request with advance notice.

The ARTccessible symbol makes it easy to identify shows that are proactively accessible, helping all patrons enjoy and benefit from the arts at the Gallagher Bluedorn.

Parking
Designated accessible parking is available in the parking lot north of the Gallagher Bluedorn. You are encouraged to come early, as some spots fill quickly. We also offer valet parking as an option.  Doors with a handicap access switch are located at all three main entrances of the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center.

Accessible Entrances 
All entrances to the building are accessible and free from stairs. Elevators operate between the Lobby, Mezzanine, and Gallery levels. A wheelchair lift is available, providing access to the rear of the Orchestra on Level 1. Please ask our usher staff if you need assistance.

Accessible Seating 
The Catherine Cassidy Gallagher Great Hall has wheelchair and scooter-accessible locations where patrons can remain in their wheelchairs or transfer to theater seats. Patrons who cannot or do not wish to transfer from their wheelchair to a theater seat should request a wheelchair-accessible location when ordering tickets. 

Handicap accessible seating may be reserved by phone, in person, or online.  Some of the accessible seating is near the stage and is available for people with disabilities not in a wheelchair. For assistance selecting accessible seats or for more information about accessibility for a person(s) with a disability, please contact Gallagher Bluedorn Box Office at (319) 273-4849 during their regular business hours.

Accessible Restrooms 
All public restrooms inside include a handicap-accessible stall. Family restrooms are available on both the main and second floors, with an adult changing table located in the main floor family restroom.

Lactation Rooms
For nursing parents, a private lactation room is available on the main floor near the concessions. This room provides a comfortable, quiet, and clean space for breastfeeding or pumping. Please ask an usher for directions, and they will escort you to the nearest lactation room.

Patrons who are Blind or have Low Vision 
All programs are now digital and are compatible with screen reader programs.

Audio Description 
Audio description is available for select Gallagher Bluedorn events throughout the year. Using a venue-provided wireless audio receiver with an earpiece, patrons can listen to a trained audio describer as they give live, verbal descriptions of actions, costumes, scenery, and other visual elements of a performance. Audio describers start pre-show notes approximately 15 minutes before the performance begins. 

Gallagher Bluedorn provides a headset for patrons who wish to listen to the description.  Headsets are distributed free of charge from the Information Table located near the Grand Staircase in the Lobby. Please indicate your request for this service when you purchase your tickets by calling the Gallagher Bluedorn Box Office at 319-273-4849.

Assisted Listening (ALDS)
ALDs amplify and clarify sound by reducing or eliminating background noise. A wireless assistive listening system is installed in the Katherine Cassidy Gallagher Great Hall. Receivers with an earpiece are available by request and can be used at any seat. Patrons may also use their own headset or earpiece if they prefer.

For patrons with hearing aids or cochlear implants equipped with a “T” (telecoil) switch, receivers with induction neck loops are available. Please ask your audiologist whether your device has a “T” switch and how to use it with an assistive listening headset.

Headsets are provided free of charge at the information table near the grand staircase in the lobby.

Patrons can also install an app on their Android or iOS device to connect to the Hearing Assist or Descriptive Audio channel.

Sign Language Interpretation 
The Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center offers sign language interpretation for select shows and also upon request. If a show is not designated as accessible, requests for this service must be received at least two weeks before the event by emailing gbpac.com or calling 319-273-3668. These requests are subject to the availability of an interpreter and are provided free of charge.

Sensory Friendly Areas
For patrons needing a break from inside the hall during the performance, TV monitors are available in the lobby for viewing.  Sensory-friendly, silent activity items are also available on each level of the Gallagher Bluedorn.  Headphones may also be available for patrons sensitive to loud noises. Ask an usher, and they will be happy to assist.