Access Review -
The Metropolitan Opera
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ID: image of the outside of the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center that says “Access Review” next to it.
General Note
This is a review of the accessibility of the Metropolitan Opera as a way to prep folks with various needs before they visit.
For some people, knowing these things ahead of time makes it easier to enjoy their experience because they know what to expect and can better accommodate their needs. And, often, makes those people more likely to go in the first place. I hope that it’s helpful!
I am also happy to clarify any specifics, just send me a message or an email and I will respond when I can.
For more access information, head to the accessibility page of their website
Access
The main entrance is on the right of the building (this is where the box office is located), Once inside with tickets acquired, the location for ticket scanning is in the center of the building (to the left of the box office).
This level is wheelchair accessible and there are elevators on either side of the main staircase to take you to all seating levels. Please note that much of the seating does involve some steps to get there.
The bathrooms (divided into the binary) are typically located on each floor on either side in front of the doors to enter the seating area. The men’s is on the left and the women’s is on the right. Each one of these has at least one accessible stall. In the very top portion of seating, there is also a women’s room on the top right.
The Met offers assistive listening devices located at the coat check station. They also have large print programs and Braille synopses available.
All performances have open subtitles in multiple languages available at each seat. After the pre-show text they don’t turn on automatically, so make sure you click the button on the right to turn them on if you want to make use of them!
For sensory-sensitive people, note that many people put on colognes and perfumes when dressing up for the opera, so it may be a bit more scent-heavy than typical theatrical experiences.