Accessibility
FringeArts is committed to being a home for new and experimental performance. A key part of our mission is to bring these bold new works to the widest possible audience, so we take accessibility seriously.
Know Before You Go
Fringe art often defies traditional genres, which means it frequently asks something of its audience. At FringeArts, we eschew the “red chair” model, where the lights go down and the audience remains passive and separate from the performance. Instead, our audiences are often invited to engage with the work, whether through direct interaction or other forms of participation. This can mean that lights may be bright, sounds may be loud, or that the boundaries between performer and audience are intentionally blurred.
Because many of our performances are touring productions, world premieres, or works-in-progress, they may evolve right up to showtime. While we may not always have every detail in advance, we do our best to provide accurate, up-to-date “Know Before You Go” information on each performance’s webpage and in pre-show emails. For a general guide to the venue, click here for our venue’s social narrative.
If you have any questions or concerns about accessibility for a specific show, please don’t hesitate to contact us at patronservices@fringearts.com.
FringeArts Building Accessibility
- The FringeArts building is wheelchair accessible and mobility-device friendly.
- We frequently transform our performance space. Some performances are seated in our 246-seat raked theater, while others may be:
- Immersive
- Fully interactive
- Standing-room only
- Performed in alternative configurations where audiences may move throughout the space
These alternative formats are part of our mission to support experimental work, but we recognize they may not be suitable for all patrons. If you need accommodations, we encourage you to contact us in advance at patronservices@fringearts.com.
FringeArts Accessibility Services
Assisted Listening Devices
Assisted Listening Devices (ALDs) are available for all performances in the theater that use amplified sound.
Sensory Kits
Sensory Kits are available upon request and include:
- Fidget toys
- Sunglasses
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Earplugs
- Weighted lap blankets
Quiet Spaces or Breaks During Performances
If you need a quiet space or a break during a performance, you are always welcome to step out. House managers can assist you in finding a calmer area of the building.
Please note: The noise level in our lobby can vary depending on the activity at Fringe Bar, our onsite restaurant. House managers are available to assist if you need a quieter area or noise-canceling headphones.
Certain performances may not allow reentry. If this is the case, we will indicate this ahead of time. The House Manager at each performance can also clarify what the reentry policy is pre-show.
Seating
Bench seating (without armrests) is available for people of size who cannot or do not wish to use standard theater seats.
When in use, the raked seating in our theater is steep. There are a limited number of ground-level seats available for those who cannot navigate stairs.
Service Animals
Service and support animals are welcome in all areas of the building! If possible, we would love advance notice of any animals joining you so we can be sure to reserve them a seat.
Personal Care Attendants
Complementary tickets for Personal Care Attendants are available for all shows in the FringeArts building. Please contact patronservices@fringearts.com ahead of time to your visit so we can ensure to reserve an extra seat!
Economic Accessibility
FringeArts is a proud member of Art-Reach’s ACCESS program. Through this partnership, we provide $2 tickets to ACCESS cardholders as part of our commitment to affordability and inclusion. To learn more about FringeACCESS and register for a membership, click here. Please note that the FringeACCESS membership is for performances in our FringeArts Presents series, and is not applicable to all shows in the Philadelphia Fringe Festival.
In addition to our partnership with Art-Reach, many shows at FringeArts and in the Philadelphia Fringe Festival are offered as Pay What You Can (PWYC). Students, people under 25, and members of the performing arts industry are eligible for $15 tickets to all FringeArts Presents shows. We aim to keep ticket prices as low and accessible as possible, without compromising the sustainability of the artists and work we present.
Philadelphia Fringe Festival Venue Accessibility
FringeArts is also the headquarters of the annual Philadelphia Fringe Festival, which takes place across hundreds of venues throughout the city. While some Festival shows are hosted at the FringeArts building, most are not.
Because accessibility varies by venue:
- We recommend checking the individual show’s page for accessibility details.
- If you are unsure whether a Festival venue meets your needs, reach out to patronservices@fringearts.com, and we’ll help you find the information you need.
We are continuously working to improve our accessibility practices. If you have feedback or suggestions, we welcome your input.
Contact us at: patronservices@fringearts.com