Accessibility is a basic right, not a special privilege. We, as a society, establish and agree upon rights through democratic processes. Some of these rights aren't fully detailed in written documents. One example is the Americans with Disabilities Act, which safeguards people from discrimination. It addresses areas like parking, voting, seating, and access to mobility devices. However, many individuals like myself find it vague and poorly written.
This year, I've really embraced my love for the music industry. I've been to nearly a dozen shows, and I've either purchased seats or requested accessible seating at most of the venues. I'm excited about it, but not trying to boast.
My concert-going experiences stand out from those of other fans. Being someone with multiple chronic illnesses, I need to request specific accommodations such as seating at a bar, permission to bring in food in case my glucose levels drop, and early entry. I recognize that these accommodations may vary for fans who use wheelchairs or have developmental disabilities. Everyone's needs are unique. In this blog post, I'll be sharing my good and bad experiences at various concert venues in the DMV area. These are my experiences. However I realize that all concert venues around the world need better accessibility and staff training. If you work at a venue ask patrons what the venue and staff can do to improve and make the place safer and more accessible. A change starts with a conversation.
Most of my venue accessibility information is from the venue website, word of mouth, or HalfAccess.org.
These are my experiences, they may vary from another disabled fan's experience. I also haven't been to all the venues in the DMV.
Washington D.C
In my opinion, The Anthem stands out for having exceptional accessibility staff service compared to other concert venues. I also want to commend the Kennedy Center, although it's a different type of venue. I've only been to one concert at The Anthem, which was Olivia Rodrigo's first tour, the SOUR tour. It was a concert I couldn't miss, so I didn't initially check for accessibility accommodations or the location in D.C. However, I typically prioritize doing research before buying tickets to ensure they can accommodate my needs.
The Anthem is part of I.M.P, an independent production company that owns multiple venues in the DMV area. All of these venues follow a similar accessibility policy, which involves calling a designated number to request accessible seating. However, this process can be quite vague and not very detailed for someone with disabilities. After making the call and reserving your seat, there is limited information provided about your specific seating location, proximity to the stage, or proximity to the sound system. Essentially, it's a no-guarantee policy where you receive what you requested and have to manage accordingly.
I was fortunate to secure tickets for two reserved seats, but I'm aware that many fans were only able to get general admission tickets and were struggling to find seats. Two weeks prior to the concert, I called the number listed on the FAQ page of their website. I informed them that I would be bringing snacks for diabetes lows and that I needed early entry. These were my specific accommodations, but I understand that accommodations for another disabled fan might vary widely.
On the day of the concert, I spoke with security outside, where they checked my ID, bag with snacks, tickets, and Covid-19 card (this was in early 2022). They instructed me to wait on a bench near the water until general admission entry began. Once general admission started, fans with disability early access were allowed to enter. A staff member kindly escorted me to the elevators leading to my seats. She also showed me the location of the bathrooms, where to find free water, emergency exits, and the merchandise area. I felt like a VIP.
I want to acknowledge that attending The Anthem with reserved seats and accommodations is a different experience from attending with a general admission ticket and accommodations.
Accessibility Rating: 4.5 stars (I''m taking the half star off because it's D.C and nothing is truly accessible there)
I recently attended a concert at The Atlantis, a new venue reminiscent of the OG 9:30 club. It had its grand opening in May 2023. Despite being an avid concert-goer in D.C., I couldn't find any accessibility information during my research. I called the 9:30 club box office to reserve an ADA seat two weeks prior to the show.
Upon arriving, I showed my medical supplies at the door. Inside, I located my marked stool, which was basic but sufficient. During the opener's performance, a security guard instructed me to move my stool in line with other disabled patrons. I complied, but this resulted in a limited view. I wasn't alone in this struggle, as others around me faced similar issues. The wheelchairs and other disabled fans were basically touching the wall and cramped together on the left wall farthest to the stage. I've never been in such a bad position besides the seating at The ADA seating at the Fillmore. At one point during the show, the ADA seating view was so bad that the photographer had to take the wheelchair user's phone and get a personal on-stage video of Blue Eyes singing for her to cherish.
Throughout the show, my view was obstructed by a pole and a tall security guard. I was frustrated but recognized my privilege to have a seat. I understand that some D.C. venues face limitations regarding accessibility due to age or size. However, I wish the venue staff had placed disabled fans in better positions. I felt isolated among the four other girls in our corner with limited visibility.
This situation was hurtful, and not the first time I've encountered such difficulties. I can't change my height, and I'm sorry if it affected my experience. After the concert, I found it necessary to express my frustration. I hope future visits to the venue will be more accommodating, especially for fans like me who are eager to see favorite artists perform
Accessibility Rating: 2 stars (at least they cared about us and gave us a place to sit. It was also near the bar for water refills.)
(Image 1 is before the security guy moved my stool, Image 2 is after he moved my stool to be closer to the "Disabled people and wheelchairs" where I could only see a crack of the stage and a pole)
I've attended two Jonas Brothers concerts at this arena. They have a strict bag policy that must be followed. If you have a special bag (baby diaper, medical, or emergency), you need to call the venue two weeks in advance and use the Capitol One holder entrance on the other side of the building. As someone who carries snacks, medications, and an insulin pump, I've had no issues with security here. They use a bag scanning machine similar to airport systems and tag your bag afterward to confirm it complies with their policies. For wheelchair users, there's an ADA seating ramp, but I personally choose my seats based on preference rather than mobility issues. I can't speak for fans with sensory room needs or interpreters.
Although, I have heard so many people get denied for concert entry here because their medical or baby bag is too bag. Even if your bag is an inch too large they will cut you out of line or deny you. I suggest calling and emailing them before hand. They have an extremly strict bag policy. I may not have had issues but other people with disabilties do here.
My favorite feature is the Kulture City sensory friendly room. It's meant for fans who have autism or down syndrome. However, anyone who needs it can use it.
The Capitol One Arena website has a page dedicated to disability services (linked above if you're interested). My only complaint about accessibility here is that staff can sometimes be rude and overly curious about bag contents. Also, being a venue in Washington D.C., expect police presence.
I'll be seeing the Jonas Brothers on December 3rd by myself. I hope everything, including the bag check, goes smoothly.
Accessibility Rating: 3 stars (staff can be rude to disabled individuals but that applies to all venues)
DC9 is a nightclub, but it lacks accessibility features. Upon entry, there's a step to reach the attendant who checks IDs and stamps hands. Medication, food, and outside drinks are not allowed. The rooftop deck, where you wait before the concert and order food, is not accessible due to wooden stairs and a narrow pathway.
The actual venue space with the stage is small, holding about 250 people, and it's located upstairs, requiring navigation through a narrow pathway. There's a bar across from the stage and a merch stand at the entrance. There are very few places to sit if needed. One positive aspect is that the club has a projector showing the stage's action, positioned in the far right corner near the audio and amp chests.
For those needing seating, including wheelchair users and fans with sensory or mobility issues, the recommendation is to sit downstairs in the restaurant/main bar area. This club has a typical nightclub atmosphere, so accommodations are limited. A suggestion is for the venue to consider building a small ramp outside, but it's understood that the neighborhood and building layout may pose challenges.
As a short attendee, I stood near the projector screen when I saw Abby Holliday perform. For disabled fans heading to DC9, sitting downstairs at the main bar is recommended. While you'll still be able to hear the music, it provides a barrier between the fan and the artist.
Accessibility Rating: 0 stars.
I love the idea of enjoying apple pie and catching an affordable concert. However, it's disheartening that this venue lacks accessibility. There's no handicapped parking on the street, stairs to enter, and the stage is upstairs. The rooftop is also inaccessible, and there's no designated seating or space for a chair. While I understand that many D.C. buildings are old and may not have been designed with accessibility in mind, it's frustrating to hear that disabled fans may miss out on seeing independent artists or cabaret shows because of this.
When I learned that GUNNAR was performing a free show here, I asked my dad to accompany me (mostly for the pie, of course). I didn't consider how far I'd have to walk in the cold or the lack of seating in the venue, aside from the bottom floor where they served pie. I was eager to see the artist I'd been listening to on Apple Music. Fortunately, I arrived early enough to see Gunnar and his team enjoying pie and mingling with fans on the bottom floor. It was a surreal experience, especially since this was before he started performing at international venues. I treated myself to some apple pie, which I highly recommend if you visit. After finishing, I waited until 15 minutes before the show to secure my spot, and luckily, I got one right in front of the stage. This meant standing for the entire set. If you have sensitivity to loud sounds or lights, this venue may not be suitable for you. It's set up similar to DC9 and has a bar in the back. I also recognize that not all disabled fans may be able to stand for extended periods like I was able to do.
Accessibility Rating: 0 stars
*For a more detailed review of ADA seating please read my Maya Hawke concert review.
I have mixed opinions about 9:30 Club's accessibility policy. While recognizing its historical background, I believe it should be revised for a better experience for fans with disabilities.
Move ADA seating away from the bar to improve visibility and reduce noise interference. Consider adding stools or folding chairs on the floor for better accessibility.
Implement staff training on person-first language to ensure respectful interactions with individuals with disabilities. This practice should be consistent across venues.
(Via AskEarn.org)
My last suggestion is to train box office and security staff how to interact with people with disabilities using medical supplies. When calling the 9:30 box office about bringing in medication or snacks for diabetes, I've encountered staff making insensitive remarks like: "You have to stand in-line there's no other option." and "Are you bringing in weed?" Additionally, there are steps on the left and right sides of the balcony that people can use to sit if they get tired, but standing during the show obstructs the view for those sitting.
Accessibility Rating: 3 stars
(I have talked to a few fans who are wheelchair users and they have had better experiences than I have here. Interesting.)
(Image one is the a view from the right balcony and image two is a view from the bar and ADA stool seats)
Maryland
CFG Bank Arena (Formerly known as the Baltimore Arena)
The Neon Lights tour with Demi Lovato and Mike Posner marked my first concert experience at the Baltimore arena, now known as the CFG Bank Arena. I was around 14-16 years old at the time and was unaware of concert accessibility. Despite experiencing a migraine during the concert, I stayed for the full show with my companion.
For their accessibility policies, you can refer to the link I provided above. Based on my research, there have been reports of disorganization and parking difficulties, which seems to be a common issue in Baltimore, regardless of the need for handicapped parking. Using drop-off might be the most convenient solution.
Personally, the only accessibility accommodations I would consider using at this venue are the elevators and medical bag check. However, they offer a range of other services. I'm uncertain about the current quality of their box office service.
Accessibility Rating: Unsure
*For a more detailed review of ADA seating please read my Joshua Bassett concert review.
This concert was the first to bring sad tears, not happy ones. I felt like there was a physical barrier between disabled and able-bodied fans. For a detailed account, please read my Joshua Bassett concert review.
The accessibility guideline on the Silver Spring Stage website is misleading and inadequate. Other disabled fans I've spoken to had similar experiences.
The ADA seating, located on the left side of the balcony, is cramped, claustrophobic, obstructed, and obstructed by a large barrier gate. It's challenging to see the stage unless you can stand. And very close to the lighting tech who is often shining the light at the stage.
Another suggestion is to have more than one ASL interpreter at shows. I've only seen one at the Hayley Kiyoko show I attended where I stood in the balcony. As a fan with hearing aids, my hearing loss isn't immediately apparent. Providing two interpreters should be a consistent practice, not just for select shows. If the interpreter is on the right side of the barricade how can anyone see them on. the left side of the barricade? Equality and accessibility should be priorities in the music industry.
(Via Silverspringstage.com)
Accessibility Rating: 1 star
( I mean at least they have an ADA section. Plus, you sit on plastic stairs with backs rather than stools. Oh and they have an elevator.)
(These are images of what a view looking above a wheelchair user looks like in the ADA section. Pictured: Lindsey Lomis and Joshua Bassett)
Merriweather Post Pavilion, owned by I.M.P, offers excellent accessibility services. I've never encountered any problems with the staff or the bag check. There are convenient handicap parking spots right in front of the main entrance and box office. The accessible seating is well-placed, and I've had no trouble bringing in my insulin pump, medication, and low-sugar snacks for my diabetes.
I attempted to attend this year's widely acclaimed All Things Go festival, only to find that it was not accessible. Festivals are not the most accommodating environments for fans with disabilities or those who use wheelchairs. I've provided some articles and resources below that might offer guidance on how to make All Things Go a more inclusive and accessible event.
These are the accessibility services listed on Merriweather's website. I also linked it above.
Accessibility Rating: 4 stars
(I'm unsure about what a wheelchair user's experience is like here)
(Image 1: A view from the second to last row. Image 2: a view from the main area center section and row)
Regarding Pier Six Pavilion, I haven't personally used their accessibility services. I attended a Why Don't We concert there with friends, and we had reserved seats, so I didn't have to worry about standing in the pit for an extended period. The Pavilion is located near the Inner Harbor on the waterfront, but there's limited handicapped parking available. Most parking is in paid garages or on the street. Wheelchair users might find it more convenient to opt for drop-off and navigate down the street toward Hard Rock Cafe.
I've provided a link to the venue website and accessibility information above. It's unclear how detailed or helpful it is, so it might be worth calling the venue box office for assistance. Alternatively, you could choose to figure things out on the day of the concert.
Accessibility Rating: Unsure
Virginia
Jiffy Lube Live offers excellent accessibility services, including ample first-come, first-served handicap parking and golf cart service to the lot. Below, there's an image listing all the services available both before and on the day of the show.
Ticketing
Day of show handicap parking
Accessible guest service stations
Unexpected needs (ticket exchange, health or medical assistance, or companion questions)
ASL Interpreter Requests
Accommodations (bathrooms, merchandise, and concessions)
Service Animals
I have been to this venue three times and would love to go back one day. I saw 5sos twice and had amazing VIP box seats and service and saw Niall Horan and stood in the pit. However, the location is so far away from my home and my inability to drive prevents me from getting to and from the venue.
I've had the pleasure of visiting this venue three times and would gladly return in the future.
In order to make concerts and live event venues, fully accessible, venue staff and builders should start by asking people with disabilities what they'd like to see and have improved. It might cost a ton of money and time to rebuild, build from scratch, or even fix websites so that they are fully accessible. But it doesn't hurt to ask someone for their input on what should be changed to make a place or event enjoyable for everyone. Everyone has a voice and deserves to be heard, even if you are part of an underrepresented community like I am. You matter.
My advice: Take those annoying surveys. Tell people about your bad concert experiences. Advocate for a better experience. Next time, include your disabled friend to join you at a live event instead of excluding them.
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