Bratton Theater’s main entrance is on Pratt Avenue and requires navigating several sets of stairs.  

The theater’s accessible entrance is on Wythe Avenue; scooters and wheelchairs can enter the lobby area using the ramp at the rear of the building on Wythe (between Scott and Root Avenues). 

There are a limited number of accessible parking spaces behind Norton Hall, on Root Avenue, and in the Main Lot.  A valid state-issued accessible parking permit is required to park in these spaces, and standard parking rates apply.   

A temporary drop-off pass can be obtained at any gate to let off a patron with limited mobility. We recommend entering through the Welcome Center Main Gate or the Turner Gate. Please note, all patrons entering the grounds must present a valid gate pass or theater performance ticket.   

The Institution provides regularly scheduled complimentary transportation service to/from the Main Parking Lot and within the grounds during the season. Take the North bus or the Lake Tram to Bratton Theater. Live updates for trams and buses are available here during the summer assembly season. 

Accessible restrooms are on the porch. 

Patrons can rent mobility devices including scooters, wheelchairs and walkers at the Main Gate Welcome Center (1 Massey Ave, Chautauqua, NY, 14722). Advance reservations for mobility devices are highly encouraged. Please visit mobility.chq.org for more information. 

Chautauqua Theater Company (CTC) and Chautauqua Institution are dedicated to the comfort of our patrons. Bratton Theater’s audience seating is at an incline with steps. To ensure there is adequate accommodation, the entire first row is designated as accessible seating. 

Upon patron request, a wheelchair or other non-motorized mobility device can take the place of a theater chair.Individuals with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices, can purchase tickets for accessible seating. Individuals purchasing an accessible seat in the front row can purchase up to three additional companion seats in the first row.  

Upon arrival at the theater, there are several options for getting to one’s assigned seat. Patrons can:  

• Patrons can bring their own wheelchair into the theater if they purchased an accessible seat in the front row or choose to park their mobility scooters outside the theater so there is ample room for emergency evacuations.  
• If a patron is unable to walk from the theater entrance to their seat, the scooter can be used to the first row and then transfer to an accessible seat.  
  Notes: Our ushers park the scooter and bring it back -at the end of the performance. Patrons can request a complimentary walker or wheelchair to transport between the entrance and their accessible seat.  

Please be aware that our ushers are unable to lift patrons from mobility devices or seats or help patrons transfer between devices and seats due to liability concerns. Patrons unable to transfer independently may be eligible for an aide pass if they have a dedicated medical aide or companion. Refer here for information on the aide passes. 

For more information about accessibility to Chautauqua Institution grounds, parking and more, visit accessibility.chq.org. 

CTC is joining other arts organizations worldwide to make select performances relaxed for neurodiverse audiences. Patrons can expect low house lights, creating a more calming environment with softer and less intense stage lighting and reduced sound levels to minimize sudden loud noises or jarring sounds. Movement around the theater is encouraged as needed. 

Live audio descriptions (LAD) are narrated depictions highlighting the crucial visual aspects of a theatrical presentation. These descriptions are read by a professional and seamlessly integrated into pauses within the dialogue, enhancing accessibility for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, those who are neurodiverse, or individuals with attention or processing diagnoses. LAD is a complimentary service.  

Braille and large print programs are available upon request for performances at Bratton Theater. We kindly ask patrons to provide at least one week’s notice prior to your visit.  

To request a braille or large print program, email accessibility@chq.org. 

The ChIf you require any additional accommodations that are not covered here, email accessibility@chq.org. Advance notice is always appreciated. autauqua Visual Arts (CVA) includes the School of Art, the galleries of the Strohl Art Center, the Fowler-Kellogg Art Center, the Melvin Johnson Sculpture Garden and the visual arts lecture series.