Wolverhampton Grand launches new app service for disabled guests
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre has launched an audio description service to improve access for theatregoers who are blind, partially sighted or hard of hearing.
The technology was first used during a performance of record-breaking pantomime Aladdin last month.
The free app, MobileConnect from Sennheiser, streams audio content via WiFi live and in great quality directly to smartphones.
Users benefit by hearing audio description of the show and those who are hard of hearing may benefit from having the audio from the production's sound desk played through the app, amplifying what they are able to hear in the auditorium.
As well as the new technology, a 'touch tour' of the props and costumes on stage before the performance helps those who are visually impaired to gain a better understanding of what is on stage. The Grand Theatre has been able to offer the technology with help from the Steve Bull Foundation which has funded the installation of MobileConnect.
It is fully compatible with iOS and Android accessibility modes where visual impairment support is required.
Sue Howell, access and operations manager at the theatre, said: "We are very excited by the possibilities MobileConnect opens up for us at the theatre and the hope we can utilise this new system to improve and develop our services and accessibility for all."
For more information visit grandtheatre.co.uk/access
