Research on Improving Accessibility of Theater Venues for Audiences with Disabilities: A Critical Review of House Management with Universal Design

Abstract

This study employs universal design principles to enhance the house management strategy of theater venues, aiming to bolster accessibility and service delivery for vulnerable groups. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, encompassing in-depth interviews with disabled audience members, Customer Journey Mapping, and Focus Group Discussions with house management experts. The research underscores the critical role of house management in rectifying venue accessibility challenges faced by vulnerable groups due to financial constraints and lack of awareness. Furthermore, it introduces a novel framework based on the seven principles of universal design, serving as a guide for enhancing in-venue services. This research uniquely situates universal design within the realm of theater information services, highlighting house management's pivotal role in offsetting facility access shortcomings.