Do you enjoy theatre, cinema and TV?

Access to theatre, films (either at home or in the cinema) and TV used to be really difficult if you had sight problems. Things are gradually improving. Here’s a quick overview of some of the ways you can continue to enjoy these forms of entertainment.

Audio description is a way of conveying the visual elements of a theatre performance, film or TV show – not only the action, but also the setting, how the characters are dressed, facial expressions, body language, lighting and visual jokes that you might otherwise miss. The audio description is delivered during natural pauses in the dialogue and it’s a bit like having a friend sitting beside you, whispering in your ear.

In the theatre, the description comes to you live through a lightweight headset. No-one else can hear. There’s usually a touch tour before the show starts - an opportunity to visit the set and get an impression of the scenery and props. An introduction, delivered through the headset a few minutes before the start of the performance, gives you information that there may not be time to explain as the action unfolds, including more detailed descriptions of the set, characters and costumes.

Information about audio described performances is usually given in the theatre’s programme, which may be available in an audio format, and on the website, sometimes as an audio file. Ask to go on the mailing list. When you book, always explain that you want to listen to the audio description - it may affect where you need to sit in the theatre and you, and sometimes a companion, will usually be eligible for a concessionary ticket price. Guide dogs may be allowed into the auditorium, or theatre staff may look after them during the performance.

Many cinemas are now equipped with a system that delivers audio description through a headset which is provided when you collect your ticket for an audio described showing. The audio description is undetectable to anyone not wearing a headset. For those who prefer renting films and watching them at home, many DVDs now come with audio description. If you belong to one of the online rental schemes, the website will tell you what films have this facility (over 500 on LoveFilm for example).

Audio description is available on all major TV channels. Many popular soaps and sitcoms are audio described, not to mention loads of dramas, documentaries, cookery shows and other programmes. To get AD, you must be able to receive digital TV. If you can receive more than five channels or six channels then you’re probably already digital. If you want to convert your TV, take advice first as not all set-top boxes and integrated digital TVs can receive AD.

Useful Contacts

This is far from an exhaustive list, but here is some information that may help to get you started with audio description.

There are regular coach trips from Oxford to audio described shows in London – recent trips have included Phantom of the Opera and The Mousetrap – organised by Gwen Cruden 01865 373378

RNIB’s Big Print newspaper includes listings of audio described programming

There is good information on the RNIB website www.rnib.org.uk about how to access audio description on your TV.

Find up to date listings of cinemas showing audio described films at www.yourlocalcinema.com/ad.html or ask at your local cinema.

The Oxford Playhouse produces an audio brochure. Contact Hester Bond

Telephone: 01865 305334

e-mail: hester.bond@oxfordplayhouse.com and ask to go on the mailing list.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with OAB if you want to know more. Call us on 01865 725595.