Accessibility

BAX is on the second and third floors of the building with stairwells that extend from the ground floor entrance to the building’s third floor. There is no elevator or ramp at this time. BAX is actively working on an extensive accessibility initiative and is committed to implementing ADA-compliant solutions that open the spaces to all.

BAX currently forefronts universal design principles in our ongoing digital and communication strategies. In addition, we provide ASL, Alt-text and CART or auto transcriptions upon request. The stairs are equipped with reflective tape for low-vision patrons and we provide fidgets, earplugs and other assistive devices for artists and students who request.

The education methodology for BAX’s youth programming was designed in partnership with disabled artists and disability specialists to prioritize equitable and accessible strategies towards engaging learners with all kinds of abilities. In addition, BAX teaching artists participate in regular professional development training and faculty discussions to understand and conceive of antiracist curriculum and practice teaching and learning facilitation strategies. Moreover, we believe in collective caretaking in which we appeal to the whole child as well as their family to develop programming that truly meets the needs and experiences of individuals while also enriching our collective community.

In addition, as part of Practice Lab, BAX is supporting a constellation of projects led by disabled artists that creates a growing framework for disability, access, and artistry at BAX. A multi-prong, artist-led collection of intersectional programs includes ROTATIONS, directed by Yo-Yo Lin and Pelenakeke Brown, D.R.E.A.M. (Disability, Radicality, Embodiment, and Access for Makers) developed by the artist Perel, an Access Artistry Conversation and Learning Circle series designed and led by Kevin Gotkin. We also have a collaborative residency with the CUNY Dance Initiative at Brooklyn College, through which supported disabled artist Anna Gichan.

Together, these projects build a platform for disability artistry that serves both the organizational culture, including BAX staff and its artist community, as well as the broader field of contemporary dance and performing arts. These interlocking programs formulate a framework for accountability and shared stewardship. They build momentum and expertise about disability access and artistry, a key dimension to sustainable organizing that too often is siloed among only those spearheading the work.