Better Backstages: Accessibility Toolkit For Music and Arts Spaces
Section 2: The Adaptive Environment
2B: Adaptive Environment Audit Tool
Here are some example questions to think about. They’re meant to help you reflect on the topics in this section and consider how they might apply to your venue or event. Use them as a starting point to guide your planning and decision-making. The companion guide that follows includes real-life examples, scenarios, actionable steps, and helpful resources to support you in addressing these questions effectively.
Stay Connected
Each audit section of the Better Backstages toolkit includes an optional Google Form. If you would like to share your responses, you can submit your completed questionnaire through the form, either with your name or anonymously. The google forms require a gmail account to use.
This is not part of any formal study. Submissions help us get a general sense of how the toolkit is being used, where people are located, and what kinds of barriers venues are working on. Over time, this may help us share updates, workshops, and ways to connect venues and artists working on similar goals.
Link to: The Adaptive Environment Accessibility Audit Tool on Google Form
This is not part of any formal study. Submissions help us get a general sense of how the toolkit is being used, where people are located, and what kinds of barriers venues are working on. Over time, this may help us share updates, workshops, and ways to connect venues and artists working on similar goals.
Link to: The Adaptive Environment Accessibility Audit Tool on Google Form
- Does the venue provide a safe and ventilated area for smudging?
- Are staff trained in cultural safety for Indigenous practices?
- Are there partnerships with African-Nova Scotian artists and organizations?
- Does your programming include diverse representation?
- Are hiring policies designed to be inclusive for immigrant artists?
- Are translation services available for application or onboarding processes?
- Are there measures in place to address unconscious bias among staff?
- Does your venue offer anti-bias training?
- Are load-in zones wheelchair accessible?
- Is the backline equipment adaptable for disabled artists?
- Does the venue offer all-gender washrooms and dressing rooms?
- Are signs clear and inclusive?
- Are there sensory-friendly areas backstage?
- Is lighting and sound adjustable for sensory needs?
- Are scent-free policies clearly communicated to staff and guests?
- Is the venue equipped with proper ventilation?
- Are visual signals used to enhance communication for Deaf performers?
- Are interpreters available upon request?
- Is tactile flooring available on stage?
- Are cables and equipment marked with tactile indicators?
- Are green rooms equipped with comfortable seating?
- Is the space accessible for mobility aids?
- Does the audio setup include options for hard-of-hearing musicians?
- Are audio technicians trained in accessible monitor mixing?
- Are dietary needs considered in hospitality riders?
- Is allergen information clearly displayed?
- Are family-friendly spaces provided for artists with caregiving responsibilities?
- Are service animal relief areas easily accessible?
