Accessibility consulting, audits, and training for creative spaces
Apex Arts Access Consulting takes a multifaceted approach to creating inclusive environments in music venues, galleries, theatres and cultural event spaces through tailored solutions.
Together we will implement practical accessibility solutions that fit your budget, space and needs. Sliding scale rates are available for non-profits and artist-run DIY spaces with demonstrable need.
In-person site visits are available only within the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM). While some exceptions may apply, rural areas are served by way of virtual consults.
I am available to travel for in-person workshops, keynotes, and speaking engagements outside HRM for locations accessible by air travel and local transport.
The Better Backstages Audit Framework
The Built Environment
A physical audit covering entrances, pathways, washrooms, stages, and green rooms. Identifies barriers and provides practical, non-structural solutions that work within your space and budget.
The Adaptive Environment
Addresses attitudinal and cultural accessibility by creating flexible, inclusive spaces that support sensory comfort, cultural practices, and diverse needs.
Human Capacity
Focuses on staff training, workplace well-being, and safety through guidance on harm reduction, violence prevention, and mental health crisis response.
Consultations
Not sure where to start, or need feedback on a specific challenge? Book a meeting with Meghan.
You can use this time to ask questions, seek advice or walk through the Better Backstages toolkit together to map out an action plan, get targeted feedback on specific sensory or physical barriers in your space, or brainstorm next steps for an upcoming project.
Rate: $90/hr (billed in 30-minute increments). Includes a follow-up email summarizing action steps after our call.
Available via phone, video, or in-person (Halifax Peninsula).
Future-Proof Your Space With Adaptable Design
Discovery Session
A collaborative walk-through and discussion to highlight accessibility opportunities and guide your next steps.
Facility Audit
Assess venues and performance spaces to identify barriers and strengths, with practical, affordable recommendations.
Strategy & Planning
Follow-up sessions to turn audit findings into an actionable plan with timelines, budgets, and priorities.
Workshops and Training
Tailored sessions for staff and volunteers focused on accessibility, inclusion, anti-oppression, and harm reduction.
Partnerships
Collaborations with arts organizations and non-profits on support materials, training, and grant-funded accessibility work through the Better Backstages initiative.
Virtual Accessibility Guides
Visual PDF guides showing accessible routes, amenities, and key details for guests and performers.
Access Riders
Custom artist access riders outlining sensory, mobility, and mental-health accommodations.
Conferences, Panels, Keynotes
Panel, presentations or workshops for conferences, arts gatherings, and industry events. My talks centre on usability, equity, and disability justice in cultural spaces.
Peak Audio Partnership
Apex Arts Access clients receive exclusive discounted rates with Halifax’s Peak Audio Video for projects that support accessibility and inclusion. Full project management including acoustic modeling, installations,lighting, furniture and smart automation solutions
Discovery Session (on-site or virtual)
This service is a collaborative starting point. While not a comprehensive measurement-based audit, it is a high-level walk-through and strategy session designed to highlight key opportunities for immediate improvement without extensive renovations.
The session includes a mini-audit, taking key measurements in a specific room or area (for example, a stage or entrance). Detailed notes and photos are taken and a follow-up report provided.
Starting Rate In-Person
$1500
Starting Rate Virtual
$750
Best For
What This Session Provides
You will gain a new perspective on your space and a clear starting point for immediate improvements. The session highlights practical, non-structural changes and creates a framework for meaningful discussion with your board or team.
A High-Level Snapshot
This session is not a detailed, measurement-based audit of the entire facility. It can help clarify whether a full audit is the appropriate next step for your organization. It is also an excellent option for smaller budgets.
Better Backstages Facility Audit (On-Site or Virtual)
This service is a detailed built environment audit of your facility. It goes beyond compliance to examine accessibility from a usability and equity perspective. My approach combines my own auditing system, applying recognized best practices as well as practical insights from lived experience.
The Audit Process
For in-person audits (available within HRM), the process typically requires site visits to take selected measurements, photographs, and detailed notes across key areas. For facilities outside HRM, audits are completed virtually through guided data collection using the Better Backstages Toolkit, followed by a remote evaluation.
Starting Rate In-Person
$2500
Starting Rate Virtual
$1800
*Priced based on timeline, size and complexity of the space and operations, and number of components requested.
Best For
Comprehensive Follow-Up Report
I will prepare a detailed report that identifies barriers, highlights strengths, and provides a clear plan for both immediate and longer-term changes. This report is intended as guidance based on CSA Guidelines and should not be used as construction or renovation specifications – all physical changes should be planned and carried out with architectural or construction professionals.
Post-Audit Strategy & Planning Workshop
A facilitated working session with your leadership team to review audit findings and create a realistic, phased action plan. By the end of the session, your team will have a draft roadmap that includes priorities, budget considerations, and timelines for implementation.
Half-Day Session
$1200
This session can be broken up into two separate sessions.
Best For
Better Backstages Audit Training Workshop
$1200Starting rate
Part 1 Staff Training (2 hours):
I train your staff to use my audit tool to review your spaces. Training materials are provided.
Part 2 – Review & Recommendations (2 hours):
I review your team’s findings, provide feedback on their approach, and highlight prioritized solutions. You will receive a summary of my observations to guide your planning, while your team develops their own internal report format.
Best For: Organizations that want to develop internal skills and receive expert input without commissioning a full audit.
Accessibility Foundations Workshop
$600General Rate
This 2-hour interactive session covers essential accessibility concepts, disability justice, and practical considerations for everyday operations. Designed for general staff, boards, venue, and festival teams, it equips your team with best practices that can be applied immediately, while providing Toolkit training materials for participants.
Pricing: $600+ (for a 2-hour session; additional time or customization available)
Best For: Staff, volunteers, venues, and event teams seeking practical, hands-on introductory training in accessibility.
Sliding Scale For Unfunded, DIY Spaces
Budgeting for accessibility can be tricky for DIY spaces and underfunded non-profits. I offer sliding scale options and predictable flat rates for organizations, DIY venues and festivals with demonstrable need.
Flat-rate pricing works best when we have a clear, structured plan with defined goals, but I’m happy to discuss an approach that makes sense for everyone.
Schedule a Free 15-Minute Consult
Start with a free consultation to talk about your space, your goals, and where accessibility fits in. I’ll help you figure out the best first step, whether that’s a walk-through, an audit, or a workshop for your team.