On Sunday, December 27, 2009, the DCPA introduced its “touch tour” for the matinee performance of “Little House on the Prairie.” The tactile tour offered attendees with vision impairments who made arrangements ahead of time to go backstage after the performance to touch the props and relive the play in a profoundly different way. DCPA also offered audio description for the play, a feature which describes scenery and staging while the play is in progress. The tour is part of DCPA’s focus on accessibility, which includes audio descriptions and programs offered in Braille for people who are blind or who have low vision. American Sign Language and open captioning are offered for those with hearing impairments.
Jamie Alexander, public relations expert at DCPA, offered her perspective after the event. “The opportunity for patrons who are blind to feel the props and costumes, such as Mary’s chalk board and her various dresses, was an excellent addition to our Audio Described performance. We’re really excited that we were able to offer this tour for patrons who are blind and hope that it augmented their experience and understanding of the show!”
The upcoming matinee performance of “Cats” on January 17, 2010 will feature audio description and American Sign Language interpretation. DCPA will offer open captioning at the Valentine’s Day February 14, 2010 matinee performance of “Legally Blond.” See DCPA for more details.
Kathryn writes and speaks on disabilities, mobility products, aging and caregiving. Subscribe to and comment on her Examiner.com articles by choosing the buttons above.
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