Effective May 2024
Policy Purpose:
The Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT) is committed to meeting or exceeding standards of excellence in serving and providing goods, services or facilities to all people including people with disabilities.
In particular, PSFT is committed to the current and ongoing obligations for accessibility described in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 in five key areas: customer service, employment, information and communications, transportation, and public spaces. Our accessible customer service policies will be consistent with the principles of independence, dignity, integration and equality of opportunity for people with disabilities.
PSFT further understands that obligations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) and its accessibility standards do not substitute or limit its obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code or obligations to people with disabilities under any other law.
This policy will be revised as standards are introduced under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) or the Ontario Human Rights Code respecting non-discrimination.
Employment Opportunities
PSFT is committed to being a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. Our mission is to Create, Inspire, Develop and Sustain professional Canadian theatre. We value all employees and volunteers, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability. We offer equal employment and advancement opportunities. Job accommodations include accessible formats and communications supports. We seek opportunities to demonstrate diversity and inclusion and to provide an inclusive, respectful environment with equitable treatment for all.
Services for People who are Hard of Hearing
For those requiring assistive hearing support, PSFT has assisted hearing devices available. The new systems are compact and easy to use. Patrons can use the ear phones provided or plug their own into the device.
Services for People with Mobility Disabilities
1. Automatic door openers are available at the street entrance.
2. Wheelchair-accessible seats are available on the main level. Please inform our Box Office at 519-782-4353 when reserving your seat. If the patron requires a support person, we will waive payment of the ticket amount for admission to the theatre.
3. We suggest that patrons using a wheelchair should arrive 30 minutes prior to the performance for easier entry.
4. Accessible washrooms are located on the Palmer Lounge and street levels.
5. Unisex single transfer washrooms are available on the Palmer Lounge level only.
5. Elevator access is available to all levels of the venue.
Services for People who are Blind or have Low-vision
1. Service animals are welcome. We will accommodate patrons and their service animal in select areas of the house where aisle or leg room allows space for the animal, does not obstruct other patrons, and gives consideration to building fire codes and evacuation procedures.
3. Front of House staff will be available to help guide patrons to their seats if required.
4. All seating is subject to availability. For more information or to book these services, please contact our Box Office at 519-782-4353 or boxoffice@psft.ca
No Scents Makes Sense
Due to the number of people with allergies, PSFT strives to be a scent-free theatre. Please avoid using scented products (perfume, cologne, aftershave, strong scented deodorants, etc.) prior to the show.
Notice of Temporary Disruption in Accessible Services
PSFT will provide patrons with notice in the event of a planned or unexpected disruption in the facilities or services usually used by people with disabilities (including but not limited to use of the elevator). This notice will include information about the reason for the disruption, the anticipated duration, and a description of alternative facilities or services, if available. The notice will be delivered to the patrons via our email newsletter, posted on our website on our “Accessibility” page as well as the Box Office window, as needed.
Accessibility Feedback
PSFT is interested in your feedback regarding our accessibility polices, plans and programming initiatives. Feedback may be communicated to PSFT via our box office team via email to megan@psft.ca by telephone to 519-782-4353, or by mail or in person to Port Stanley Festival Theatre at 6-302 Bridge Street, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C3 471
For questions this policy, or its purpose, please contact the General Manager, Tony Sclafani. 519-782-4353, ext. 5, or email: tony@psft.ca
