World first theatre captioning application for smartphones

The Canberra Theatre Centre together with The Captioning Studio has this week launched GoTheatrical!, the world's first theatre captioning application for smartphones and mobile devices.

The launch of the app at the Playhouse, Canberra Theatre Centre was hosted by ACT Government Minister for the Arts and Community Services, Joy Burch and officially launched by Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Jan McLuca.

Minister Burch stated "this application is a genuine world first, allowing Deaf and hearing impaired patrons to access live theatre captions directly on smartphones and mobile devices when attending captioned performances.

"We are proud that Canberra Theatre Centre will be among the first venues to implement this technology."

Senator McLucas said this revolutionary technology will complement current captioning displayed on screens at the side of the stage at select venues, giving people with a hearing impairment the same choices as other theatre-goers.

Senator McLucas added "enjoying a night out at the theatre is something that many of us don't think twice about but the fact is there are many Australians who haven't been able to enjoy this popular past time.

"This new technology builds on the Australian Government's commitment to ensuring everyone can participate fully in the community, regardless of ability.

"The Australian Government has already committed to $500,000 to improve access to cinemas for people who are deaf, blind, or visually or hearing impaired, which will see captions and audio description available in 242 screens by the end of 2014.

"We have provided $1 million for playback devices to improve access to print material in a digital format for people with print disability at selected public libraries across the country, with almost 1,259 playback devices (DAISY players and audio navigators) already in selected public libraries."

The initiative is another step towards reaching the objectives of the National Arts and Disability Strategy agreed to by the Australian, State and Territory Governments.

For more information contact Nari Jennings of The Captioning Studio on 08 8463 1639, E: info@captioningstudio.com, www.theatrecaptioning.com.au

30th November 2009 - TICKETS.COM PARTNERS WITH LASTTIX