Accessibility - VocalEssence

In addition to offering concert venues across the Twin Cities, low ticket prices, and diverse programming, VocalEssence continues to strive to bring choral music within reach of more Minnesotans. We aim to make the concert experience enjoyable and accessible for all patrons.

VocalEssence Accessibility Statement

VocalEssence is committed to providing audience and performers with access to programs and facilities. Contact Executive Director Mary Ann Aufderheide (maryann@vocalessence.org or 612-547-1454) for more information about services and accommodations. VocalEssence does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs or activities. Upon request, reasonable accommodations will be provided to allow individuals with disabilities to participate in VocalEssence programs. All programs must be held in spaces that are physically accessible to people with mobility disabilities. This access pertains to parking, entrance areas, presentation areas, and to restroom facilities.

The following information includes all of the services and amenities we offer to our patrons with special needs. Please refer to the venues tab to find information for each specific venue, and please contact the Minnesota Orchestra Ticket Office at 612.371.5656 if you have any questions or would like to make special arrangements.

Parking

Most of our venues have handicapped parking attached to or very near the performance space. Please visit our venues page for more detailed parking information for each venue.

Wheelchair

Wheelchair accessible seating is available at all of our venues. When ordering tickets, please state any special needs so that we can best accommodate your seating preferences (612.371.5656).

Listening Devices

Select venues offer infrared listening systems. They are: Ordway Concert Hall, Orchestra Hall, and Ted Mann Concert Hall. Please visit the venues page to see if they are offered at your chosen venue or for more information on services for our hearing impaired patrons.

Large Print Programs

Large print programs are available at many of our concerts by request. If given at least 10 working days, VocalEssence written information could be made available in additional alternative formats.

Service Animals

Service animals accompanying patrons with disabilities are welcomed in VocalEssence venues. Patrons should inform a representative when purchasing tickets from the ticket office, at 612.371.5656.

Sign Language Interpreter/Audio Describer

VocalEssence will hire a sign language interpreter should a patron seek to have a concert, presentation, workshop, or program interpreted. Audio description services will also be provided should a patron seek to have a concert, presentation, workshop or program described. The organization reserves the right to have at least 10 working days prior notification of interpreter or describer need.

Allergies/Chemical Sensitivities

Please be considerate of those who may have allergies or chemical sensitivities. It is recommended that you refrain from using strong perfumes and colognes so as not to distract the patrons sitting around you.

Transportation Accessibility

Most of our venues are accessible by public transportation, whether that is via light rail, bus, or Metro Mobility services. To find specific information for your venue please refer to our venues page.

Concert Length and Format

Most concerts have about a two-hour program, with an intermission between the two halves of the program. We also offer Family concerts catered towards our youngest audience members.

Venue Specific Information

If you have questions or would like more information about a specific venue’s accessibility services, please follow the links below to the pages for each venue: