Ed Mirvish Theatre
244 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1VB
Walking down Yonge Street it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the flashing signs and lights. However, step into the Ed Mirvish Theatre and you will instantly forget where you are. Open for a variety of shows throughout the year, we decided to take a look inside the beautiful historic building and review its accessibility features.
The accessible entrance to the venue is located on Victoria Street. Approaching the entrance, there are three sets of double door entrances, each set measuring 55 inches wide. Upon entering, there is an elevator measuring 32 inches wide x 60 inches in length that will take you to the main lobby from which to access the theatre. On show nights, doormen operate the doors and are available to assist anyone requiring the elevator. The theatre also owns a wheelchair available to assist patrons to and from the show.
Traveling through two sets of double doors measuring again 55 inches wide, we entered the main lobby where drinks, snacks and other retail products can be purchased. We took a minute here to look up and were in awe at the beautiful architecture and decoration of the building. On the right side of the lobby is a single accessible bathroom equipped with automatic features. The door measures 33 inches wide and swings inward and shuts on its own. A lock and door opener button are located on the right side wall within a functional reaching height. There are three grab bars around the toilet (see photo), and ample maneuvering space. The sink area is free from clutter measuring 34 inches high, with 39 inches width of clearance. The soap dispenser and hand dryer are also within functional reaching limits.
Throughout the main lobby and into the theatre room the floor is covered in flat carpet and gradually slopes down the closer you get to the main stage. To enter the theatre, a doorman also stands at the theatre entrances, again measuring 55 inches wide. Wheelchair seating exists at the end of every few rows and beside the soundboard at the back of the theatre. The theatre is equipped with an infra-red listening system for those with hearing impairments. Two types of headsets are available to use free of charge depending on your needs. It is requested that you call to reserve them ahead of time as numbers are limited.
If taking the subway, the closest accessible subway station is Dundas Station. Note that while traveling from the station to Victoria Street, although there are curb cuts, there is construction happening that makes the concrete uneven and difficult to traverse at this time. If driving, the nearest green P is at 20 Dundas Square, right next to the subway station.
If you are looking for a fun night out and decide to catch a show let us know how it was in the comments below! As the Ed Mirvish Theatre is 1 of 4 downtown theatres owned and operated by Mirvish Productions, keep an eye out for more reviews of their venues to come!
http://www.mirvish.com/theatres/ed-mirvish-theatre?open=accessibility#view