Blind audience members

I believe the Subiaco Arts Centre now has this technology, and will soon be able to provide a similar service. (It takes a bit of training to deliver a clear, impartial description of a performance, giving enough information but not distracting from the play experience itself.) Barking Gecko Theatre has provided special 'touch tours' for several of its shows since 2007, in association with the Association. Sight-impaired patrons are invited early into the theatre, to orient themselves. We introduce the cast to them, allowing them to recognise that one actor may play several characters with different voices. We'll give enough of a synopsis that the story will be clear even if there are actions going on onstage with no dialogue. (For instance, we might play a certain music cue and tell them that when this cue is played in the show, you'll know a certain character is sneaking around in the background; or if people are laughing at something being said, it's because the character is actually doing the opposite...etc). Elements of costumes, props and puppets are described, and where possible handed to the patrons so they can 'feel what they look like'. Sometimes this involves guiding them onstage to get an idea of certain set and furniture. We'll answer questions both before and after the show if necessary, to allow the patrons as thorough an understanding as possible. These days have been received extremely well, and have allowed lots of sight-impaired children and adults to enjoy an experience with their families that they might have otherwise missed out on. Contact Barking Gecko for information on any future such events. Cheers, Craig ~<8>-/====\---------