Accessibility
Hearing Loop and Assisted Listening Systems
The Lensic welcomes patrons of all abilities at every performance. Some of our performances are designed to be especially welcoming to patrons with sensory sensitivities. If you’d like to discuss your needs with us before your visit, please contact the box office at 505-988-1234 and we will be happy to help.
Hearing Loop and Assisted Listening Systems
We offer two options for patrons who require hearing assistance.
Hearing Loop
Patrons whose hearing aids are equipped with telecoils, or T-coils, can use our newly installed hearing loop, which streams high-quality audio directly to hearing aid devices. Each type of hearing aid is different, so please consult your audiologist to ask whether your hearing aid has a T-coil and if it is properly activated.
Hearing loop streaming service is available in most seats in the theater. However, in the orchestra section, it is not available in Rows AA, BB, A, and B, or in the center section of Rows R and S. In the balcony, it is not available in Row K. Patrons who require hearing assistance in those areas can use ALS receivers and headsets (see below).
If you have questions when purchasing your tickets, please ask a box office representative for assistance.
ALS Receivers and Headsets
The Lensic offers receivers and headsets for patrons who request them. Please speak with a Lensic Ambassador (usher) or someone in the box office upon your arrival and request an ALS device.
Support for the Hearing Loop
The Lensic’s hearing loop was installed in July 2019, with funding generously provided by Loop Santa Fe (a Circle Fund at the Santa Fe Community Foundation) and Audiology Associates.
Wheelchair Seating
Wheelchair Seating
We offer both wheelchair-accessible seating and companion seating for all events.
Accessible Restroom
There is an accessible restroom just inside the main lobby.
Sensory-Friendly Performances
Sensory-friendly performances are designed to be welcoming to everyone, including adults and children who have been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, those with developmental or cognitive challenges, and those with other sensory sensitivities. A few things you can expect at a sensory-friendly show:
- No flashing or intense lights; no loud or sudden sounds. Sensory-friendly productions have been designed (or modified) to ensure they are not overly stimulating for patrons.
- A relaxed environment. Audience members are welcome to leave their seats as they wish and talking or other seat noise is permitted.
- Designated “quiet space.” Quiet spaces, staffed by trained volunteers, are available for those who need some time away.
- Resource materials will be available ahead of the performance, to make your Lensic visit as comfortable as possible. These materials will describe your Lensic visit and the performance in more detail, so you’ll know what to expect, every step of the way.
Resource Materials
Special resource materials are available to help young patrons feel as comfortable as possible before attending a sensory-friendly show. “A Visit to The Lensic” reviews the basics of a trip to our theater (click on the link below to view a PDF). Other show-specific guides provide information about what patrons will see during a performance.
Support for Our Sensory-Friendly Programs
The Lensic’s sensory-friendly performance program is generously supported by the Theatre Development Fund. Special thanks to TDF’s National Autism-Friendly Performance Training Program for serving as an advisor. That program has been made possible, in part, through a grant from Next for Autism, from the proceeds of Night of Too Many Stars.
We also thank Amy Miller, executive director at the May Center for Learning, a school and outreach center for students with language-based learning differences in Santa Fe.