Here at The Denver Center, we work hard to make theatre accessible and enjoyable for patrons of all abilities.  For our patrons who are Deaf or hard of hearing, we offer American Sign Language (ASL) interpreted performances for all of our shows.  In this quote from the most recent “Broadway Fan Club” newsletter, Lisa Carling, Director of Accessibility Programs at Theatre Development Fund (TDF) in New York, gives an excellent explanation of the difficult preparation necessary for interpreting a live show:

“Interpreting for the theatre is an ‘in the moment’ technique.  In 1980 TDF’s Accessibility Programs (TAP) presented the first sign-language interpreted performance of a Broadway show. Since then, hundreds of productions have been interpreted on Broadway.  It is an intense process wherein interpreters spend roughly 50-70 hours preparing for a show.  Their rehearsal preparation includes translating the script into American Sign Language (ASL), working with a Deaf advisor, character division, rehearsing at the theatre in an out-of-the-way place during the performance to learn the actors’ pacing, nuances, and facial expressions; and when it comes time to interpret the actual performance, staying with the live experience all the way.  This means keeping fluid, never freezing their translations, being able to adapt to changes both on stage and from the audience.   It’s a definite skill and when it’s done well, it’s an unforgettable experience for Deaf audience members.

Interpreting for the theatre is also, first and foremost, a service that is provided for the Deaf Community, people who are culturally Deaf and use ASL as their primary means of communication.  Sign language interpreters are not members of Actors’ Equity.  They are not performers.  Their job is to throw focus to the actors, not compete with them, and to help Deaf attendees understand what the characters are saying and feeling on stage.   It’s a very difficult balance but with top-notch interpreters you can see the difference between signers who are serving the show and those who are trying to use it as a vehicle to stardom, which it definitely is not. It’s a highly specialized skill that involves a tremendous amount of hard work on the part of the interpreters for a very appreciative audience.”

For a full schedule of ASL interpreted performances and other accessible performances, please visit our website.

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