Variety KC loves our friends at Starlight and have loved partnering with them on many projects over the years. Not only is Starlight an amazingly beautiful venue, but did you know how accessible it was as well? We asked Starlight to share a bit about what makes Starlight so accessible. Here’s what they had to say!
Starlight Strives to Make Theatre Accessible to All
Starlight wants to make sure as many people as possible can experience the magic of a night under the stars at a Broadway show or a concert.
A partnership with Variety KC resulted in ADA parking signage. These innovative parking signs feature pictures of Variety KC kids as a reminder to keep disabled parking spots open for those who need them.
This project brought improved communication services to Starlight, including communication boards installed at Guest Information Kiosks, as well as communication boards and sign language boards that patrons can check out for free on performance nights. Patrons in need of noise-canceling headsets, weighted blankets and fidget toys are able to check out Variety KC sensory kits during events. The Variety KC partnership also included the installation of universal changing tables in Starlight restrooms.
In 2021, The City of Kansas City, Mo., Piper Wind Architects, Turner Construction Company, and the Starlight operations department made some Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements throughout the facility.
Improvements included:
- Numerous walkways leveled throughout the venue
- Increased number of ADA and ADA companion seats
- Elevation of outer Terrace sections to improve sight lines
- New, accessible signage throughout the venue
The project also included upgrades to the front of house theatre with an accessibility lift option for production staff and moved the video booth to be centered within the venue.
Starlight strives to be as inclusive as possible and continuously evaluates patrons’ needs, so all visitors may have a positive and memorable experience.
For information about all the ways Starlight works to ensure the venue, events, and services are available to all guests, visit the accessibility page on Starlight’s website.
