Penn Live Arts Blog / By / Beth Jamieson

Make the Nevers Possible: Our Path to Sensory Inclusion

Posted June 7, 2023

At the beginning of 2023, we partnered with KultureCity to make the Annenberg Center the first performing arts venue in Philadelphia to be sensory inclusive certified! With this certification, we join the ranks of Lincoln Financial Field, the Liacouras Center, Citizen’s Bank Park and hundreds of locations across the country. Through KultureCity, the nation’s leading non-profit in sensory accessibility, our team has committed to providing a more inclusive experience for all, with newfound training in assisting patrons with sensory processing needs.

After a chance encounter with KultureCity at an industry conference, we knew a partnership was in our future. Inclusion and belonging have been longtime priorities for Penn Live Arts (PLA). Obtaining this certification was a step closer to ensuring we are doing everything we can to provide an outstanding experience for all. Read more...

A Lifetime of Service: Celebrating Usher Milestones

Posted December 9, 2020

With the holiday season in full swing, thoughts often turn to gratitude and giving. While this year has certainly been unlike any other, there are still many reasons to celebrate. For our Front of House department, 2020 marks two employee milestone anniversaries worth celebrating: Lueree Scott’s 25th year and Gerry Shambaugh’s 30th year at the Annenberg Center.

I knew I was in the presence of front of house (FOH) royalty when I met Lueree and Gerry over five years ago. Working alongside these two over the last few years, I have learned so much. Gerry, a confident and quick lead usher/theatre usher, is there with sage advice and guidance at every turn. He is always the first to jump in when extra hands are needed and can come up with creative solutions to any problem. Lueree, our ticket-taking pro theatre usher, arrives extra early for every shift, and greets incoming ushers with her kind smile and incredible zest for life. At 91 years of age, Lueree keeps up with our children’s matinee audiences and Penn student workers alike. She always tells us this work “keeps her young!” Read more...