Accessibility

Steppenwolf proudly offers a number of accessible and inclusive services for patrons who have Mobility Disabilities, are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing, are Blind or have Low-Vision as well as individuals on the autism spectrum or those with sensory sensitivities.

Experience the video below as Associate Director of Audience Experience, Megan Kaminsky, showcases the theater’s commitment to creating thrilling and thought-provoking art in an environment that is comfortable and enjoyable for all.

Special thanks to Fun4TheDisabled, a Chicago-based nonprofit, for highlighting Steppenwolf's as part of their #AccessibleChicago campaign.

Open-Caption/ASL and Audio Described versions of the video are below:

• Wheelchair accessible seats in all theater spaces.
  • In our Downstairs Theater, wheelchair accessible seats and seats without stairs are available in the back rows of both the Main and Balcony levels
  • In our Ensemble Theater, wheelchair accessible seats and seats without stairs are available in both the front and back rows
  • In our 1700 Theater, wheelchair accessible seats and seats without stairs are available in the first row
• Wheelchair accessible restrooms in all of our lobbies
• Wheelchair accessible counters at Front Bar, Balcony Bar, and Tap Bar
• A courtesy wheelchair, available on a first-come/first-served basis.
  • To make arrangements for use, call our customer service line at 312-335-1650 or email access@steppenwolf.org. Or, simply ask a staff member upon arrival.
• Accessible parking spaces in our valet parking lot at 1700 N Halsted, just north of the theater. Patrons who park here may pay the standard rate of $17 at our café in Front Bar.

• Induction loop in all theater spaces
  • If you use a hearing aid or cochlear implant that has a T-Coil, feel free to turn it on for any performance!
• Complimentary assistive hearing devices in all theater spaces
  • Separate from our induction loop, our assistive listening system features FM headsets and over-the-ear headphones that amplify the actors’ voices.
  • To check one out, visit our Guest Services desk located across from coat check in the main floor lobby.
• Open-captioned Performances
  • These performances display live text of dialogue and sound descriptions on large screens that are viewable from the audience.
• American Sign Language-interpreted Performances
  • These performances feature live sign language interpreters located near the stage. Those using the service will be seated for optimal viewing of both interpreters and production
  • A certified interpreter will be located in the lobby before each ASL-interpreted performance to assist with any customer service needs

• Audio-described Performances
  • Audio Description is a live narration inserted into the play’s pauses that explains the key visual elements happening on stage. Participants receive the narration in one ear while the other ear is kept free to listen to the actors, as well as audio elements of the play.
• Pre-show Touch Tours
  • Our touch tours often begin with insights from an artistic representative of the show. The audio describer then gives a full and detailed set description, followed by the full cast of actors introducing their characters’ physical appearances. Depending on the show, we will tactilely explore some key props and, if permitted, walk on and explore the set.
• Braille and Large Print Programs
  • These can be found at our Guest Services desk located across from coat check in the main floor lobby
• Dedicated curb-to-seat assistance on request
• A relief area for service animals in front of the theater

Relaxed/Sensory-Friendly performances are designed to create a safe and welcoming experience for guests who may include (but are not limited to) individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as people with sensory sensitivities. Family members and companions are welcome, as is anyone who might enjoy this relaxed environment.

A WELCOMING SPACE

While there are some simple sensory adjustments that are made to make a Relaxed/Sensory-Friendly performance (see below), the most significant modifications are philosophical and attitudinal.

For this performance, we acknowledge that some guests will respond differently to the environment and stimuli by making noise, moving and leaving their seats… and that's okay. Everyone in the theater for this show—from the performers to the ushers to all of the audience members—are excited to be helping make this experience possible.

SOCIAL SUPPORT

In advance of everyone's visit, we'll share a detailed narrative about what it's like to visit Steppenwolf—from arrival in the parking garage to the role of the ushers to what it means when the lights in the lobby flash. We'll also share an overview of the play that includes a plot outline and an introduction to the characters.

We've enlisted a great team of volunteers who will be placed throughout the lobbies and theater to help with wayfinding and offer warm support.

In the lobby, we'll have a quiet area set up where guests can go if they want to take a break and relax.

PRODUCTION ADJUSTMENT

A Relaxed/Sensory-Friendly performance takes into consideration those aspects of a production that can be challenging or triggering for guests and seeks to adjust them accordingly. While we will make some sensory adjustments, we will not change the essential artistry of the play.

Working with a team of experts who are experienced with sensory sensitivities, we will make adjustments that may include:

• Lowering light and sound cues
• Eliminating loud or jarring effects
• Leaving some of the house lights on so the theater won't be completely dark
• Leaving some seats empty so that guests can move about during the performance
• Keeping a theater door open for easy exiting and reentry during the performance