Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara will welcome Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie to Schenectady for a tour of the Schenectady Light Opera Company (SLOC), a cornerstone of local arts and culture. The upcoming visit will highlight Santabarbara’s continued efforts to improve accessibility in community spaces and support much-needed capital upgrades that make facilities welcoming to individuals of all abilities.

As Chair of the New York State Assembly’s Committee on People with Disabilities, Assemblyman Santabarbara is leading a statewide effort to modernize historic venues and ensure they are fully accessible. The Schenectady Light Opera Company’s building – while rich in history – still poses barriers to inclusion for both audiences and performers with disabilities.

“Inclusion means everyone should be able to enjoy the arts, take the stage, or simply enter the front door without obstacles,” said Santabarbara. “This visit will shine a light on what it takes to make these beloved community spaces open and welcoming to all.”

Speaker Heastie’s tour of SLOC will offer an important opportunity to discuss how state support can help bring facilities like this one into the future – while preserving their cultural legacy and ensuring full participation for people with disabilities.

EVENT DETAILS

Who:

• NYS Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara
• NYS Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie
• SLOC President John Meglino, board members and supporters
• Local families, disability advocates, and community leaders

When:

Tuesday, July 29th, 2025 at 1pm

Where:

Schenectady Light Opera Company (SLOC) 427 Franklin Street
Schenectady, NY 12305