Audio Description at the Palace Theatre
The Georgetown Palace Theatre in downtown Georgetown offers Audio Description for those with low vision or those who are blind. This service is currently available for every production, but only on the Saturday 7:30 p.m. and Sunday 2:00 p.m. performances of opening weekend. The service is free to the user and no special knowledge is required (the user will receive a quick tutorial on wearing the equipment and adjusting the volume). To take advantage of the service, please reserve a seatthe Friday before the show opens and let the box office know that you are interested in Audio Description. That will ensure that the service and equipment are prepared. (See below for upcoming deadlines for future shows.)
Audio Description consists of two key elements: a receiver and a headset the audience member uses during the performance (this equipment is offered free by the theatre) and a staff of professionally trained describers who speak into a microphone which is only heard by those who are using the receiver/headset.
The headset only covers one ear (your choice which side) so that the sounds being presented in the auditorium (spoken word or music) can still be heard. The receiver has a volume control so the user can adjust the sound level to meet their needs.
About 10 minutes before the show starts, the describer gives an overall explanation of the set, describes key cast members (age, physical description) and their costumes and any other major elements of the production (flying objects, large rolling set pieces which would come on later). For plays set in a specific time period, an effort is made to give the user a clear “picture” of key elements which are particular to that time period. (For instance, a play set in Victorian time at a ball would most likely include language like “floor length skirts made of satin and silk.”)
During the show, key action is described to the listener. Whenever possible, this happens during the quieter portions of the performance so as not to speak over the actors or key musical elements. The describer tries to pay particular attention to action which results in sounds or set up for significant action later in the performance.
For the remainder of this season, Audio Description will be available for the following shows*:
- Moon over Buffalo – (April 4) April 12/13
- Guys and Dolls – (May 9) May 17/18
- Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story – (June 20) June 28/29
- The Full Monty – (Aug 15) Aug 23/24
*Dates in red are the deadline to let the box office know you are coming and interested in AD.