While disabled people make up 25% of the population they represent less than 1% of writers and filmmakers behind the screen. They also make up less than 2% of the characters in what we’re invited to watch.
Along with a crucial gap in theatre accessibility, this drastic underserving and underrepresentation is highlighted as a missed opportunity in a 2025 report from not-for-profit Inevitable Foundation’s Research Institute.
Can ticket sales be increased?
The report by Saga Darnell showcases the compelling case for increased accessibility—not just as a matter of inclusivity but as a significant business opportunity.
Most of the people interviewed during the survey had multiple disabilities (78%) and at least one invisible disability (73%). Looking at accessibility, researchers heard that only 4% disabled movie goers always have their ideal needs met at movie theatres with findings also suggesting that people would go to the theatre more if these needs were met (82%). Fifty five percent of movie goers with disabilities say they are most likely to purchase two or more tickets. In addition, 65% of movie goers living with disabilities were twice as interested in seeing a movie in a theatre than at home, proof that the underlying demand exists.
Types of investment needed
• The ability to call the theatre office directly to talk to a live person about accessibility
• More accessible parking spaces
• Available seating in the lobby
• More accessible website
• Ability to purchase tickets on line
• Accessible restroom
• Low sensory theatre
• Captions on screen
• Recliners for more comfortable seating
Time to tap in
The authors of the report concluded that by investing in audiences of people living with disabilities and their communities, exhibitors and distributors have the rare opportunity to increase general audience satisfaction by prioritizing comfort and experience while simultaneously attracting an underserved market segment.
Image: iStock
