Accessibility

We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy quality theatre. Below are some of the ways we try to meet the needs of as many patrons as possible. Please reach out to us if you have concerns about your visit.

Assisted listening devices

For listening assistance during performances, our infrared system, which amplifies the sound on stage, is available free of charge. Please ask the house manager for assistance. (This service is not available on the third Wednesday evening of each production's run when Audio-described performances are occurring.)

GalaPro

GalaPro is a revolutionary, innovative app for accessibility and translation, which enhances the audience’s experience for live performances. Patrons using the app can now enjoy the show with subtitles on their smartphone or tablet. All services are provided in real-time. 

GalaPro is the first-of-its-kind mobile application that enables the attendees to not only see and hear the performance, but to understand what is being said as well.

GalaPro requires a one-time installation of the app. It is easily accessible and can be downloaded for free from the App Store/Google Play. Then, the user simply chooses the venue, the show they wish to see, and service(s). Our unique technology is designed specifically to adhere to the theater. Airplane mode is always on so there will be no messages or phone calls, and a black screen with red font that only the individual looking at the screen can read. There are no bright lights to disturb anyone.

Please alert House Management if you plan to utilize this service.

Sign-interpreted performances

Sign-interpretation is available for each Mainstage Production on the dates below. This service must be requested two weeks in advance and will only be provided if it is requested. Additional interpreted performances can be scheduled based on the availability of qualified interpreters and two weeks notice. Please email [email protected] to request this service.

Dates for Sign-interpreted performances during the 2021-22 Season:

• The Thanksgiving Play: Thursday, October 21, 2021 at 7:45 pm,
• Disney's Beauty and the Beast: Thursday, December 2, 2021 at 8:00 pm
• Hedwig and the Angry Inch: Thursday, December 9, 2021 at 8:00 pm
• A Christmas Carol A Ghost Story of Christmas: Thursday, December 16, 2021 at 7:45 pm
• A.D. 16: Thursday, March 3, 2022 at 8:00 pm
• Dance Nation: Thursday, March 24, 2022 at 7:45 pm
• The Joy That Carries You: Thursday, June 2, 2022  at 7:45 pm
• Meredith Willson's The Music Man: Thursday, July 14, 2022 at 8:00 pm

Audio-described performances

Audio-described performances are offered on the dates below. This service must be requested two weeks in advance and will only be provided if it is requested. Audience members may enjoy free broadcast pre-show program notes and descriptions of the action, scenery and costumes during pauses in the dialogue from any seat in the theater. The Metropolitan Washington Ear provides this service. Please email [email protected] to request this service.

Dates for Audio-described performances during the 2021-22 Season:

• The Thanksgiving Play: Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 7:45 pm
• Disney's Beauty and the Beast: Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at 8:00 pm
• Hedwig and the Angry Inch: Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 8:00 pm
• A Christmas Carol A Ghost Story of Christmas: Thursday, December 9, 2021 at 7:45 pm
• A.D. 16: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at 8:00 pm
• Dance Nation: Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at 7:45 pm
• The Joy That Carries You: Wednesday, May 25, 2022  at 7:45 pm
• Meredith Willson's The Music Man: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 at 8:00 pm

Sensory-friendly performances

Olney Theatre Center is committed to providing accessible theater to everyone. Visit this page for dates and more information. If you or someone in your family would like to attend a sensory-friendly performance, please contact our box office to purchase tickets.