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I know that every area is different, but what are your thoughts on this. I am looking at a theatre in a downtown area that had been twinned. It has been closed for a while now, and I am looking to reopen it. The main floor theatre was kept as is, and the balcony was converted to the 2nd screen. Would there be requirements to make the 2nd screen handicap accessible? Would a person be forced to add an elevator or lift to get to it? Once you were up there, they wouldn't be able to go anywhere anyway, as it is stadium seating. What are your thoughts on anything else that has to be updated on an old building? The restrooms are located upstairs as well, but a unisex bathroom had already been added on the main floor. What are some other issues to consider?
Thanks

Depending on how long it's been closed you MAY be grandfathered... However I would just go talk to the local code inspector and point blank ask him what if any problems you would be getting into.

Good luck with it! I hope you are able to get it and reopen it!

Tony.

Our 2nd floor theater had also closed for a year or two. When it re-opened it did not have to comply with ADA rules as it was grandfathered.

If you were taking an old building and converting it into a 2nd floor theater I think you would have to add something but given it's already in place you are perhaps not required to. I felt really bad when old folks had to climb the stairs and were winded at the top.

Check with local code person and ADA but I think you should be ok if this was a viable business before AND without an elevator.

Some areas may require you to put in a fire sprinkler system and/or sophisticated fire alarm. Sometimes fire/life safety system requirements only kick in when you do major remodeling so it's always best to ask your local building authorities.

How tall is your building with a 2nd floor theater?

How big is your theater is general?

we built new 2nd floor balcony and there was no need to ada it because it was under X dollars and Y seats. Seats and $ dictate the threshold for ada usually.

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Michael Hurley
Impresario