New technology has made going to a comedy show or event at Cullen Performance Hall even easier and more enjoyable for individuals with hearing loss with the venue’s introduction of its ListenWIFI service. 

“Cullen Performance Hall is committed to accessibility. We want to provide the same great experience and service to everyone across the board,” said Brandon Ferkel, theater director, CPH. “This includes finding new ways to ensure all guests have access to the services they need to enjoy the shows.” 

ListenWIFI is an innovative Wi-Fi streaming solution that allows CPH guests to use their smartphones to access audio for assistive listening. The system sends the audio directly to a person’s headphones, hearing aids, or cochlear implants without increasing the surrounding sound. A closed captioning option to view what is being said is also available. 

A patron can easily connect to the audio streaming by: 

• Joining the Listencph Wi-Fi network using the QR code on the CPH site or from posters at the theater. 

• Downloading the free ListenWIFI app using the QR code on the CPH site or from posters at the theater. 

• Listening on your smartphone. 

• Activating live captioning on your smartphone. 

• Viewing closed captions. 

The new upgrade fulfills The Americans with Disabilities Act requirements for theaters and is economical since it relies on the use of the guests’ smartphones and listening devices. Its feed can only be picked up in CPH’s orchestra and balcony areas.