Planning a visit to the Empirical Theater and wondering about accessibility? Whether you’re looking for wheelchair access, closed captions, or other accommodations, the Empirical Theater is committed to ensuring everyone can enjoy the movie experience. Before deciding What Movie Is On Theater for you, understanding the theater’s accessible features can help you plan your visit with ease and comfort.
Wheelchair Accessibility at Empirical Theater
The Empirical Theater strives to be inclusive for all guests. For wheelchair users, please note that the upper-level entrance is fully accessible. This entrance provides convenient access to the theater and also includes wheelchair accessible restrooms on the same level. It’s important to be aware that the main entrance on the lower level is only accessible via stairs due to the theater’s layout. To ensure a smooth arrival and to locate the accessible areas, it’s recommended to check in with a Guest Services Representative or a volunteer upon arrival. They will be happy to provide assistance and directions to the upper-level accessible entrance and restrooms.
Assistive Movie Features: Closed Captions, Audio Description, and Amplification
Empirical Theater is dedicated to making movies accessible to guests with varying needs. Many daytime documentaries and newer evening full-feature films are equipped with closed captions, audio description, and volume amplification. To enhance the viewing experience, the theater provides CaptiView closed caption units. These devices are user-friendly, fitting into the cup holder and allowing guests to personally adjust the captions within their line of sight. For those who benefit from audio description, the Fidelio RX audio description units deliver descriptive narration, enriching the movie experience. These units also offer volume amplification for the overall theater sound and dialogue, ensuring clear audio for everyone.
Checking for Show Accessibility: Showing Today Signs
To easily identify what movie is on theater and which accessible features are available for each showing, Empirical Theater updates “Showing Today” signs daily. These signs are prominently displayed at the front desk and the theater entrance. Look for indicators on these signs that specify whether a particular movie offers closed captions (CC) and audio description (AD). It’s worth noting that volume amplification is consistently available for all theater content, including regular movie showings as well as special events like Science Pub and Reel Science. This ensures that regardless of what movie is on theater, audio amplification is always an option.
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Assistive Devices Available for Guests
For guests who require assistive devices to fully enjoy what movie is on theater, Empirical Theater offers a range of equipment. Limited quantities of the following devices are available and can be requested at the Front Desk, Concierge Desk, or from the theater usher:
- CaptiView closed caption (CC) viewing devices: For personalized closed caption viewing.
- Fidelio RX audio description and volume amplification units: Offering both audio description and sound amplification.
- Williams Sound NKL-001 neck loops: Specifically designed for guests using hearing aids equipped with a telephone coil or T-Switch, enhancing sound clarity directly through hearing aids.
These devices ensure that a range of auditory and visual needs can be accommodated, making the movie experience more inclusive and enjoyable.
Seating Dimensions and Accessible Seating Options
Understanding seating can be crucial for comfort. The standard theater seats measure approximately 16.5 inches wide and 21.5 inches deep, excluding arm and back rests. For guests requiring accessible seating, the theater provides two dedicated chairs in the accessible seating area with dimensions of 39.29 inches high, 29.5 inches wide, and 29 inches deep. Additional accessible seating area chairs, measuring 23.5 inches wide and 21.5 inches deep, are also available upon request. It’s important to note the weight capacity for these chairs: the primary accessible seating area chairs can support up to 500lbs, while the additional chairs support between 200lbs and 250lbs. These varied seating options aim to accommodate different needs and preferences, ensuring everyone can comfortably enjoy what movie is on theater.
Sensory Support Resources
Recognizing that movie experiences can be overwhelming for some, Empirical Theater offers sensory resource packs to enhance comfort. Earplugs are available upon request at the Front Desk and Concierge Desk for those sensitive to loud sounds. Sensory resource packs are also available and include items designed to help manage sensory input:
- Noise reducing headphones: To minimize auditory distractions.
- Fidget toys: To provide tactile stimulation and reduce anxiety.
- Sunglasses: To lessen visual overstimulation from bright screens or lights.
- Visual and auditory timer: To provide predictable cues and manage expectations.
- 2-pound weighted shoulder wrap: To offer calming deep pressure.
- Sanitizing wipes: For hygiene and comfort.
These resources demonstrate the theater’s commitment to creating a sensory-friendly environment, making what movie is on theater accessible and enjoyable for guests with sensory sensitivities.
Contact Guest Services for Further Assistance
For any specific questions or additional needs regarding accessibility or what movie is on theater, please do not hesitate to contact OMSI Guest Services. They can be reached at (503) 797-4000 or via email at [email protected]. The Guest Services team is dedicated to assisting guests and ensuring a positive and accessible movie experience for everyone at the Empirical Theater.
