Adelaide Festival - Australia’s first Audio Described outdoor spectacular!
Author: CBOnline | Source: CBOnline | Date: 23-02-10
The 2010 Adelaide Festival hosts the first Australian outdoor spectacular to be audio described for the vision imparied.
The festival’s Artistic Director, Paul Grabowsky says he’s delighted to make the opening weekend festival event A Little More Light more accessible to people with a disability.
By bringing a portable radio and tuning to Radio Adelaide on 101.5FM, audience members can listen to a description of the visual aspects of the performance. This event and other access initiatives are the result of the collaboration between the Community Arts Network (CAN SA), Disability & Arts Transition Team (DATT), and the Adelaide Festival.
The Adelaide Festival access initiative includes Auslan interpreted events, a surtitled production of ‘Le Grand Macabre’, wheelchair access at all venues, and Assistive Listening Devices (audio loops) for hearing aid users installed at specific theatre venues.
“It is hugely exciting that the Adelaide Festival have embraced the idea of audio describing their opening weekend spectacular. This opens up a highly visual event to many people who are often denied these experiences”, says DATT Project Officer, Gaelle Mellis.
Large crowds are anticipated. A free shuttle bus will be available from Adelaide train station as well as public transport, parking and bike friendly services. A limited number of radio receivers will also be available on the night.
A Little More Light will be held at the Victoria Park Racecourse on Saturday February 27 at 8.45pm.
For more information about the festival and access program go to - www.adelaidefestival.com.au