Access Review -
Terminal 5
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ID: image of Terminal 5 and says “Access Review” next to it. The rest of the slides have that image as a background with a white text box on top filled with black text.
General Note
This is a review of the accessibility of Terminal 5 as a way to prep folks with various needs before they visit.
This is not meant to scare anyone away from going. As I say when I review shows, most have about the same amount of content warnings and sensory warnings to go along with it, they’re just rarely explicitly written out.
For some people, knowing these things ahead of time makes it easier to enjoy their experience because they know what to expect and can accommodate their needs better. And, often, makes those people more likely to see it 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.
General Access
This may not necessarily be precisely “what to expect”, as this likely changes show to show, but here’s my experience!
People line up outside the entrance well before doors open. While in line, they come around to check IDs and give a bracelet if you’re over 21. If you aren’t, or don’t have your ID, they use a marker to put an X on each hand. At the top of the line you go through security and a bag check (no bags to the left, bags to the right).
You then get your tickets scanned (box office is to the left). If you need to get to the ADA section, you will ask for that here! I will explain that process in the next section.
Otherwise you go straight ahead into the venue which is typically standing room only. The bathrooms on this floor are gendered and merch is typically on this floor.
ADA Section
To go to the ADA section, they will bring you to an elevator by where the ticket scanning happens and give the disabled person in your party a red bracelet (this is so if they run out of seats in this section, the folks who need it will get priority).
The ADA section is a few lines of bar stools or folding chairs along the right side of the second floor. Visibility isn’t fantastic unless you’re in the front row, so arrive early! Disabled patrons are also able to arrive early and jump the line if you call in advance.
The bar is behind this section and the bathrooms are also behind, kind of by the elevator. They are single use and non-gendered.
Also! If you didn’t get ADA tickets in advance, you can still ask day of to go to that section (that’s what we did). Don’t forget to pack earplugs, sunglasses, fidgets, and/or anti-nausea medication if you need! It can get quite loud and bass-heavy.