Soho Theatre provides regular captioned, sign language interpreted and audio described performances for our plays, so that our audience get the full story.
Below is information about what to expect from an accessible performance. To find out dates for captioned, signed and audio described shows, click here.
Captioning
Captioning works in a similar way to subtitles on TV or a foreign film and is aimed at deaf and hard of hearing audiences. The dialogue scrolls down on a box which is placed above the stage - information is also shown about other sounds, such as music and sound effects.
If you are a hearing aid user, you may also benefit from wearing a loop headset which aimplifies and clarifies the sounds in the play.
Sign Language Interpretation
BSL Interpreted plays feature an on-stage interpreter who converts spoken dialogue into British Sign Language. BSL has a unique structure and syntax and the interpreter will spend several weeks learning a play before performing their translation.
We release a regular video clip on You Tube in BSL (with subtitles) with a short show synopsis. To see the latest one, click here.
Audio Description
Audio Described performances are aimed at blind and visually impaired audience members and captures the visual elements of a play, making it come alive through speech.
From the look of the set, to stage action and the physical movements of the cast. Audio Description is specially written then spoken by a trained describer during the pauses in a play, and is heard on headphones by the audience member.
We also provide an audio guide for every audio described play. We can send you a CD or you can listen to the audio on the website, on the audio guides section.
Speech-To-Text
We also use a live palantypist for unscripted performances, such as live comedy or after show discussions.
This is where speech is typed phonetically into a keyboard and converted into words by a computer, appearing on a projected screen with a short delay.
We used Speech-To-Text most recently for Abnormally Funny People's monthly comedy show.
For more information about accessible performances or to join our mailing list, email charlie@sohotheatre.com.
