The Academy Center of the Arts is dedicated to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can fully participate in and enjoy the rich tapestry of arts and culture that our institution has to offer. We believe that access to the arts should be inclusive and barrier-free, and as such, we are committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all. Below are answers to commonly asked Accessibility questions. If you have any additional questions or needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out via the contact information listed below.
Seating
Accessible seating for events is available and can be purchased online, via phone, or in person at the Bank of the James Ticketing Office. When visiting the Harrington Building, seating is also available.
In the Historic Academy Theatre, Row N and Row S are accessible without stairs. Row DD and Loge seating in the lower balcony is also accessible via elevator, though patrons would need to exit the building via descending stairs in an emergency. The Upper Balcony is only accessible via stairs.
In the Warehouse Theatre, accessibility accommodations will be provided depending on the event configuration. Seated events using risers will have ADA seating available in the front row(s). For GA standing room only events, please let us know if you will need seating.
Parking
On site parking at The Academy is limited.
Dedicated handicap parking is available in the Warehouse Parking Lot, as well as the Lynchburg Grand Lot.
Patrons may drop off guests at the Warehouse Theatre entrance or Historic Theatre courtyard (mezzanine level) before proceeding to find parking.
If you’d like to drop off a guest at The Harrington Building, please contact the Academy ahead of time to coordinate.
For the most up to date parking information, please visit our Parking & Directions page.
Restrooms
All restrooms at The Academy have braille and visual signage. Patrons are welcome to use restrooms according to their gender identity.
The Historic Theatre has five restrooms are located on the first and second floors (accessible by elevator) of the lobby. A single stall, wheelchair accessible restroom with an infant changing station is available on the second level of the lobby.
The Joy and Lynch Christian Warehouse Theatre has four restrooms on the basement (accessible by elevator) and first level. This facility does not have a single stall restroom.
The Harrington Building has three restrooms on the first level of the gallery. A single stall, wheelchair accessible restroom with an infant changing station is available on the first level.
Assisted Listening Devices (ALDs)
ALDs are available in the Historic Theatre. Patrons may borrow them from the Box Office.
Other Questions
For other questions related to events not answered here, please contact Operations Manager Eden Esakaros at [email protected].
For questions related to classes in the May Carter Pottery Studio, please contact Ted Batt at [email protected].
For questions related to other classes, please contact Kelli Johnson at [email protected].