Flat Rock Playhouse offers Audio Described Performances

Sponsored by

A method for visually impaired to take in theatre

Flat Rock Playhouse has created a new opportunity for blind and visually impaired patrons to have an enhanced theatre experience. Sponsored by Asheville Eye Associates, the Playhouse will provide Audio Descriptive services during a Saturday Matinee for every 2012 Mainstage production.

Audio Description is a verbal commentary that speaks "between the lines" to describe entrances, exits, actions, and key props to people who cannot see them. The service tells the visually impaired audience member what is happening on the stage during the parts of the performance where there is no dialogue. The description does not interfere with the performance but fills in the gaps, describing facial expressions, costume, scenery and action sequences so that anyone with a sight problem can follow the plot fully and independently.

Audio Description brings the sets, lighting, costumes, characters, and onstage action alive for a visually impaired audience. Without interfering with the dialogue, the trained Audio Descriptive committee of the Supporting Players will provide a live, objective and succinct description of the action and visual elements of the play, between the actor's lines through a wireless transmitter. The participating patrons, who use the service, receive the Audio Description through a single earpiece and wireless receiver.

"We are taking a huge leap toward embracing inclusivity. For a lot of people this will be their very first theatrical experience,'' says Dale Bartlett, General Manager of Flat Rock Playhouse and initiator of the project. "This is an overdue and most welcome initiative in expanding access to live performing arts."

Flat Rock Playhouse
2012 Schedule of Audio Described Performances:
Please Note: AD users should arrive before 1:30

My Favorite Things: The Music of Rodgers and Hammerstein - Saturday, April 21, 2:00 pm

Our Show of Shows - Saturday, May 19, 2:00 pm

Spitfire Grill - Saturday, June 23, 2:00 pm

The Fox on the Fairway - Saturday, July 14, 2:00 pm

Guys and Dolls - Saturday, August 19, 2:00 pm

Noises Off - Saturday, September 8, 2:00 pm

Almost, Maine - Saturday, September 22, 2:00 pm

Zelda: An American Love Story - Saturday, October 27, 2:00 pm

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - Saturday, November 17, 2:00 pm

The Nutcracker - Saturday, December 15, 2:00 pm

There is never any charge to the theatre patron for the use of audio description, and the Hendersonville Lions Club will generously underwrite a portion of the ticket cost for patrons who are in need of this service. Inquire at the Playhouse Box Office to take advantage of this benefit.

Contact the Playhouse Box Office at 828-693-0731 or toll-free at 866-732-8008 for details and reservations for Audio Described performances.