Lensic to Install New Hearing Loop System in June

Santa Fe, NM (February 8, 2019)—The Lensic Performing Arts Center is upgrading its hearing assistance offerings by installing an audio induction loop, also known as a “hearing loop,” in June. The Lensic is the first major arts venue in Santa Fe to install a hearing loop, joining a growing number of venues around the country in updating technology for the benefit of hard-of-hearing patrons.

The new system will be funded largely by a grant from Loop Santa Fe, a Santa Fe Community Foundation Circle Fund that supports and encourages the installation of hearing loops at local arts and education venues.

The Lensic’s loop system will stream high-quality audio directly to tiny telecoil receivers, or t-coils, contained in many hearing aids and cochlear implants. Hearing loop technology is convenient for patrons and provides clear, static-free sound while eliminating the need for assisted-listening headphones or neck loops. Both headphones and neck loops will remain available for Lensic patrons who prefer them or whose hearing aids are not equipped with t-coils.

“I know firsthand that loop systems provide vastly improved sound for people who are hard of hearing,” says Pam Parfitt, who established the Loop Santa Fe Fund at the Santa Fe Community Foundation in 2018. “Headphones, neck systems, and hearing loops are all ADA compliant, but loop systems more accurately replicate the original sound.”

“Our new system will enhance The Lensic experience for many of our patrons when it goes live in June,” says Joel Aalberts, executive director at The Lensic. “We are very grateful to Loop Santa Fe for supporting this project.”

Donations/For More Information
Those interested in supporting The Lensic’s hearing loop project can make donations directly to the Lensic (505-988-7050, ext. 1203) or through the Loop Santa Fe Circle Fund at the Santa Fe Community Foundation (505-988-9715). Loop Santa Fe also accepts general donations, which will be used to fund hearing loop installation at other public buildings in Santa Fe. To learn more about Loop Santa Fe, contact Pam Parfitt at sffiddle@gmail.com.

The Lensic Performing Arts Center
The nonprofit Lensic Performing Arts Center, a landmark historic theater in the heart of Santa Fe, is home to arts and cultural experiences for everyone, all year round. The Lensic serves its community through world-class artistic programming (including our Lensic Presents series), theater rentals with discounts for local nonprofits, and groundbreaking educational programs that touch the lives of 16,000+ students each year.