The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts fully complies with all disability requirements of both the city of Kansas City, Missouri and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Lyric Opera of Kansas City is committed to providing the most accessible and enjoyable experience possible to all of our patrons. For questions, email us at patronservices@kcopera.org, or call Ticketing & Patron Services at (816) 471-7344.
All performances at the Kauffman Center are accessible to people who require assistance. Lyric Opera’s productions take place in the Muriel Kauffman Theater, which houses many accessible seating options in all areas, including:
- Wheelchair-designated seats, where the seat can be removed to make room for someone’s chair. Companion seats are also available adjacent or nearby.
- Seats with removable armrests, to allow for more room, easy transfer from a wheelchair, or easy access for someone who uses a walker.
- Many seating options that do require taking any stairs to access.
Please call Ticketing & Patron Services at (816) 471-7344 to determine your best and most accessible seating options.
Accessible parking slots in the Arts District Garage are close to building access points, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Valet parking is also available on the south drop-off drive for most performances.
If you or your guest needs to be dropped off, two drop-off areas allow guests to easily enter the Center:
- The north side of the Kauffman Center, accessed from 16th Street.
- The private drive on the south side of the Kauffman Center, accessed from Broadway Blvd.
Opera is an artform that is often performed in foreign languages. At every performance, English translations are projected above the stage to help the audience understand every word.
Braille copies of the show programs are available for use by patrons at all Lyric Opera performances at no cost to the patron. These do not need to be reserved and may be requested at the Kauffman Center Gift Shop on Level 4 before your performance.
Assisted listening device headphones are available for use by patrons who are hard of hearing during all performances. These may be requested at the Kauffman Center Gift Shop on Level 4. There is no charge for use of these devices; however, a driver’s license or credit card is required and will be held until the equipment is returned.
The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts supports nursing mothers by providing a dedicated space for privacy. The room has comfortable seating, an electrical wall outlet, and a monitor to view your performance. You may reserve this room in advance by calling the Kauffman Center box office at (816) 994-7222. However, access to this room is also available without prior reservations by speaking to a staff member or volunteer during your visit.
Signage conforms to ADA standards, meaning major support and life safety spaces, such as stairs and restrooms, are identified with tactile and Braille signs. Elevator panels and doorjambs provide raised letters and Braille text as well.
Patrons may request special services like ASL interpretation or audio description at least two weeks prior to any performance. Please contact Ticketing & Patron Services by email at patronservices@kcopera.org, or by phone (816) 471-7344 to coordinate your services.
More information about accessibility at the Kauffman Center can be found here.
