My grandma told me that my uncle (who lives in another state) offered to pay for her to see a Broadway show. She asked if I would take her. I was surprised, because she doesn’t even like to go to the movies, because she uses a walker to walk which makes her feel self conscious, and also is not fond of the big rush of people trying to get past her when the movie is over, and having to stand for a bit before she can start walking again. So what do you think?
Is this just going to be too much on her? Usually trips to the city involve a lot of walking. I’m wondering if that can be avoided.
Logistics of travel. We live on Long Island. Usually I’d take the train to the city. Some concerns: Can she make the gap between the platform and train? Will the train be so packed that she can’t get a seat? Can find out which trains will not be a double decker, which would involve stairs? Are there any trains from Port Jeff that go straight through instead of transferring at Huntington? Are there elevators at Penn Station - or can she handle an escalator? Would it be easier just to use a wheelchair? Or should I just drive? Is there convenient parking?
What about the theater? Are there walker friendly theaters in terms of getting to seating, and having comfortable seating?
Are there restaurants nearby? How about some other activity to fill time nearby that doesn’t require a lot of walking?
If it were my grandma, I would just hire a limo. Pick her up at her front door and drop her off at the front door of the theater. Most theaters if not all - especially Big Broadway Shows - have handicap accessible areas. There may be a website that lists the most accessible theaters, and to book tickets for those particular seats you will need to contact the individual theater’s Box Office, I would think. You at least want to book an outside-aisle seat for her, if the aisle along a wall is wide enough, the theater may allow her walker to be stowed against the wall across the aisle from your seats. If you get seats next to a wheelchair accessible area, then her walker can be stowed there. (as long as it doesn’t obstruct someone in a wheelchair!)
Once you’ve selected the theater and show, then find restaurants nearby. It’s possible that when you’re booking with the Box Office, that person may be able to direct you to a good accessible restaurant nearby. I might suggest a matinee and dinner after, if she’s anything like my grandma was (rip), she’ll sleep through the show if she had a fancy meal first!
The limo also resolves that issue - you can go to any restaurant with door to door limo service for the day. It may or may not be less expensive to book one during the day on a Sunday, anyway.
SeaDragon Tattoo read my mind.
Most certainly take a limo - I know it is a tad pricey, but it will make life a lot easier and will certainly make the day memorable.
I worked at a theater and it would help greatly if you guys arrive a bit early - to ensure time to get a seat and get settled. Also, gives grandma time to go to the restroom if necessary, before it gets crowded.
After the show, just chill for about 5 minutes until things calm down and most have left the theater. Eating after the show is also fun as you get to talk about what you liked and didn’t like.
At any rate - this sounds like a wonderful gift and a fun day - don’t know what kind of shows she likes, but you might want to pick a musical she knows, or something upbeat and fun.
If you’re seeing something on a mezzanine, make sure the theatre has an elevator. My mother, grandmother, and grandfather went to see a show when my grandfather was still mobile and had some trouble. Or if you can, try for the orchestra.
Thanks for the suggestions all. I agree a limo would be ideal, but I checked up on limo rental and well, let’s just say we can’t come up with $600 or so for one day’s activities. I think wheelchair is probably going to have to happen unless I take the car in, and maybe even then.