Trinity Rep makes its plays more accessible
Trinity Repertory Company in Providence is known for its annual reimagining of "A Christmas Carol." (WJAR)
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WJAR) — The Trinity Repertory Company in Providence is making its plays more accessible.
If there's one thing those in the theater business learned during this pandemic, it's how to adapt.
And that has led to an added benefit: Making the theater more accessible and inclusive, beginning with its production of "A Christmas Carol."
"This year, we're really excited to be able to expand some of our accessibility offerings, which is something we've been doing during our closure during the pandemic," said Jordan Butterfield, director of education at accessibility at Trinity.
Like they did last year, this year's production will be offered online. They're in the midst of filming and editing that version.
"We are trying to make that option available to folks who are immunocompromised, people who just aren't ready yet to return to the theater," said Butterfield.
And more accessible to those who are sensitive to loud noises, and abrupt lighting changes. So, when someone purchases the streaming version of the play when it becomes available in early December, it will include -- for those who request it -- a sensory guide.
"It literally lists moment by moment things that might be abrupt with lighting changes or sound," said Butterfield. "That'll also include a video which will kind of introduce you to some things that you might be watching in the play that are particularly abrupt or could be scary for some viewers. It is a ghost story, so it happens."
Butterfield said more in person shows will also include open captioning -- a screen up in the grid of the theater.
"Every sound effect and every word, every lyric is going to be up on there in time with when the actors are saying it," said Butterfield.
And for those who are hard of hearing -- upgraded assistive listening devices.
"Patrons who use assisted listening devices can actually download an app that will go a long with that. It allows you to use your own cell phone and head phones," said Butterfield. "It's really clear sound."
Something else in the works? Bringing on and training a group of volunteer ushers to help those -- one-on-one -- with any special needs during any of the upcoming productions.