Victoria Festival of Authors is committed to the accessibility of our in-person and virtual programming. To ensure we meet the needs of our authors, audience and community, we welcome all feedback and ideas.
If you have an access request, or would like to discuss the accessibility of Victoria Festival of Authors’ 2025 programming, please contact info@victoriafestivalofauthors.ca, with the subject line ACCESSIBILITY.
General Information:
Ticket Prices: Most events have sliding scale pricing. VFA encourages audience members to self-select a ticket price that reflects their financial capacity. Because of changing financial realities, VFA has removed the free ticket option for theatre-based programming. Free tickets for theatre-based events, and limited bursaries for workshops, will be provided to those for whom ticket prices create a financial barrier. Please contact info@victoriafestivalofauthors.ca.
ASL Interpretation: Interpreters are available upon request for all events. Please contact VFA by September 30 to request interpreters for live and/or livestreamed viewing.
Langham Court Theatre
Mobility Considerations: Langham Court Theatre was built in 1880 as a carriage house and barn, and was converted to a theatre in 1940. Though the theatre has worked to increase their accessibility, there are limitations because of its age.
Entrance: The theatre has two entrances. In front, there is an entrance with stairs that include 13 steps, with handrails. There are no elevators but a flat ramp to the left of the building that leads to the lounge entrance with a very tiny bump. Attendees can use either entrance.
Wheelchairs/ Mobility Devices Seating: There is space for wheelchairs , and devices the width of a wheelchair such as rollators/walkers, at the back of the theatre, however this is accessed by a sloped aisle that is 28” wide. The front row is an option for a transfer from a chair to the theatre seating. There are two jump seats that would be ideal for pole/cane users.
Bathrooms: There are two gender-neutral bathrooms. One of these bathrooms has a large stall, with a doorway 30” wide. There are handrails in bathroom stalls.
Priority Seating: Seating for all events is first-come-first-served, however we are happy to provide early entry and/or assigned seating for those who self-identify a need. Please contact us in advance of the event to arrange a plan with VFA staff. You can see the seating chart HERE.
Those requiring a companion for access are encouraged to take advantage of the zero-fee ticket option for that person.
Scents: While we encourage audience members to be scent-sensitive, please note that we are unable to enforce this policy.
Alternative Viewing Options: All events at Langham Court Theatre will be livestreamed. If you choose to attend in-person and are not comfortable with theatre seating, you can watch the event on the screen in the lounge.
Parking: In front of the venue there are five accessible parking stalls that serve those with valid BC accessible parking permits. There is no general parking at the theatre. Free parking is available on side streets (Moss Street, Linden Avenue, and Fort Street), as well as the Central Middle School parking lot on Fort Street. Please abide by parking signs; do not park where it is posted Residential Only, as you may be ticketed. Please give yourself plenty of time to find parking before your event.
W̱MÍYEŦEN/ Mary Lake Nature Sanctuary
Mobility Considerations: Events at this outdoor venue include walking. When planning the route, we take into consideration audience members who require a slower pace, however the paths can be narrow and some uphill routes can be a bit steep. There are boardwalks that may be slippery when wet. You will likely be standing for the full event. Outdoor events run regardless of the weather. If you require any further details please don’t hesitate to ask.
Note that the nature house is closed. There are portable toilets on site and a tent covering for the bookselling/ signing area.
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
Mobility Considerations: The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and access to the Spencer Gallery, where the workshop will take place, is fully accessible. The parking lot is bumpy with roots and frost heaves, but is navigable. The entrance is street level with a few steps, but also with a low-grade ramp.
Wheelchairs/ Mobility Devices Seating: There is space for wheelchairs , and devices the width of a wheelchair such as rollators/walkers.
Bathrooms: There are four gender-neutral single occupant bathrooms. All are wheelchair accessible with handrails.
Scents: While the Gallery posts Scent Free signage and staff are aware, please note that we are unable to enforce this policy with visitors.
Parking: To the right of the entrance, there is one accessible parking stall that serves those with valid BC accessible parking permits. There is general parking at the Gallery. Free parking is also available on side streets (Moss Street, Wilspencer Place, and Pentrelew Place). Please abide by parking signs; do not park where it is posted Residential Only, as you may be ticketed. Please give yourself plenty of time to find parking before your event.