April 8, 2025
Advocate of the Month: Washington County Playhouse
Our Advocate of the Months go above and beyond to provide inclusivity for people with disabilities. Our April Advocate of the Month, the Washington County Playhouse, gives personalized attention to ensure guests of all abilities can enjoy every performance.
Established in 1985, the dinner theater is a family-owned business in downtown Hagerstown. Owned by Laura Martin and Shawn Martin, The Playhouse’s sole mission is “to entertain”, and according to Laura, that includes entertaining people of all backgrounds and walks of life.
“We believe everyone has a right to have access to the arts,” says Laura. “We just do whatever we can to make sure everyone can enjoy live theater.”
The Playhouse’s attention to accessibility begins with the production of each show. Laura says they strive to keep shows as sensory-friendly as possible, such as by eliminating strobe light effects unless absolutely necessary to the show’s plot.
The Playhouse’s dedication to guests of all abilities shines most in personal interactions from their staff members and performers who serve guests during dinner. Guests with limited mobility are given seating that’s easily accessible for them, and for one guest who is sensitive to light, staff members meet her before each show to inform her of when any bright lights might shown during the production.
Dan and Carrie, two regulars at the dinner theater who have vision impairments, have been attending shows at The Washington County Playhouse for the past 10 years. Dan gives high praise for the accommodating staff members, who ensure they have the same table every time they visit to memorize its location, as well as assist them with getting their food and all other needs.
“It is always so wonderful and refreshing to come across people who are willing to be so accommodating, but at the same time, never feeling like they have to go out of their way to help us with whatever we may need,” says Dan. “All while at the same time, they never treat us any different from anyone else who attends any of their performances. They are always more than happy to help, because that's just the kind of people they are and that's what they do.”
Thank you Washington County Playhouse for being an outstanding advocate of all abilities!