For Immediate Release– In the ongoing celebration of the newly renovated Latchis Theatre, the Latchis is very pleased to highlight accessibility improvements made to serve people with disabilities. “The Latchis and Latchis Arts are committed to doing the best we can with our historic structure” says Managing Director Gail Nunziata. “The recent campaign gave us the opportunity to make advances.”
Specific wheelchair accessible seating locations with companion seats are now available in clearly marked locations around the hall. One location is permanent, and seven offer flexible wheelchair accessible seating, all with companion seats. While “flexible” means that either theatre seats or wheelchairs may inhabit a space, in most cases the everyday set-up will accommodate wheelchairs.
One fan of the Latchis’ accessibility improvements is Ben Underhill of Brattleboro. “I appreciate the availability of wheelchair and companion seating, as well as accessible facilities. I always felt welcome at the Latchis, but these make it less of a chore to go to the movies or attend an event.”
Additionally, transfer arms are installed on eight aisle seats at various locations throughout the theatre. Transfer arms are aisle armrests that lift up to create easier access for people with mobility concerns. They are found by looking for seats that lack the Latchis’ historic aisle seat ends. An ADA insignia is displayed instead.
Ticketing outlets for Live at the Latchis events have been asked to identify the accessible and transfer seat locations on their web sites, and to provide a statement explaining how to reserve those seats.
The Ballroom Theatre, Fountain Theatre, and Latchis 4 also have wheelchair accessible spaces. The Ballroom is accessible by elevator, although staff assistance is required to access this theatre. Please ask at the ticket booth or concession stand.
All four Latchis theatres have been outfitted with assistive listening devices (ALDs) for use by movie goers at no charge. This equipment is available by request at the concession stand.
The Main Theatre employs Radio Frequency Transmitters and a Loop system, extending full coverage around the room and in the balcony. Three belt-clip transmitters and headsets are available. Patrons may bring their own headphones. Ear buds can also be used with this system. Patrons are welcome to bring their own , or purchase at the concession stand for $1.00.
The Loop system is for use with hearing aids. A transmitter is worn around the neck and the movie’s sound is enhanced through a person’s own hearing aids. Two loops are available.
The Radio Frequency Transmitter and Loop systems can accommodate a total of three patrons in the Main Theatre at one time.
The Ballroom Theatre, Fountain Theatre, and Latchis 4 all employ an infrared system. There are a total of five specialized headsets available for use with the infrared system.
In addition, the Latchis is able to offer movies with closed captioning. Advance notice is necessary. Please leave a message 254-6300×158 to arrange a special screening.
Visually impaired guests can take advantage of the descriptive video system, which provides narrated information about key visual actions, settings and scene changes. This system is available by prior arrangement, by leaving a message at 802-254-6300×158. Assistive listening devices and descriptive systems cannot run simultaneously, so coordination is required.
Restrooms off the main lobby each include an accessible stall and sink.
A wheelchair for patron use is available on site.
The Latchis Theatre strives to make the arts available to people of all abilities. For general information or questions on accessibility, please contact Gail Nunziata at 802-254-1109. Visit www.latchis.com for movie and Live at the Latchis schedules and information.
Gail Nunziata, Managing Director 802.254.1109
Latchis Arts & Latchis Corporation
50 Main Street Brattleboro VT 05301
www.latchisarts.org www.latchis.com
Preserving the Latchis – Promoting the Arts
