Queensland – Describing the Performing Arts

Audio Described Art, Theatre, Ballet, and Opera

Audio description is increasingly being used to assist blind and visually impaired people to enjoy live events. This video gives some insight into the process within a theatrical setting:

Queensland has become known for the audio description of art and live performances, including dance and live theatre.

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre

In conjunction with Access Arts and Vision Australia, the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) offers live audio description services for patrons who are blind or vision impaired.

Audio description is provided via headphones, which can be collected prior to the performance. For more details visit the QPAC audio described performances page or  phone (07) 3840 7466 (Mon to Fri, 9am-5pm) to book your ticket.

The Queensland Theatre

The Queensland Theatre offers audio description services for five of their productions in 2018. More information is available via the Queensland Theatre accessibility page, which explains that:

This service allows blind and vision impaired people to enjoy our shows by having trained describers capture in live narration – without interrupting the dialogue on stage – the action, costumes, sets, transitions, gestures, facial expressions and lighting or special effects in a performance. This is transmitted via a discreet headset/earpiece worn by the client in the auditorium. Imagine your own personal “director’s commentary” but only when there is a pause in the dialogue.

Audio Described Art

According to their website, both the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) and Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) offer audio-described tours which provide description of of selected artworks.

Audio description tours are available weekdays from February to November. Advance booking notice of 15 days is required. To book, contact the Group Bookings Office between 8.30am and 4.00pm Monday to Friday on +61 (0)7 3840 7255. For more detail, please consult the QAGOMA accessibility information page.