David Deacon: Why I created a website that advertises captioned and BSL performances across London (and beyond!)

Hello there! My name is David and I have created a website called ‘Deaf and Square-Eyed Access’ or daseaccess for short. It is a platform that I use to advertise the latest captioned and BSL performances all on one site.

I also update the latest BSL tours, festivals, and accessible events as well. Currently it is London based (however festivals and events can tend to be regional) As I am working on this site, solo, I will try my best to keep this updated and collect all the information I can find.

The reason why I am doing this, is because I am an avid theatre and film fan, and it is incredibly important that D/deaf audience do not miss out on the arts. It is a thrilling thing to be part of and it is devastating not to see these events maximising the full potential of having a deaf audience.

Out of an average 125 performances in a theatre run, only three or four are accessible. One captioned, one BSL interpreted, one audio described and one suitable for neuro-divergent audience.

Much more is needed and like cinema, the majority of the audience normally will have to attend a specific time at a specific date, at a specific venue. If you cannot attend that date, then there is rarely a solution (however in some cases, there is a way and venues can communicate directly with you to ensure accessibility is granted.)

I also believe promoting an event can be an issue. BSL interpreters can be booked at the last minute, giving far too short notice for the audience to attend. This can also apply to captioned performances and therefore delivering a low turnout of an audience needing access.

Festivals are hugely important too and whilst there are promoters out there, there are also some events that are rather niche. I recently curated a list of Pride events in the UK, and they are fabulous to be part of. The pride community is a fantastic way to meet new faces, greet old faces and join in the colourful fun. Above all, they should be inclusive and bringing people together- some of the prides are really devoted to ensuring access for all.

I find it joyous when someone from a pride team get in touch to say they have confirmed a BSL interpreter for the main stage, and rightly so. A tribute band in drag, with a BSL interpreter? Count me in! Everyone should feel included and most importantly, be comfortable about who they are, and providing this level of access really does help.

Even I was surprised to see how many pride events will provide a level of access for its audience. I will be encountering Bristol Pride for the first time so do holler/give a wave if we do meet! It is incredibly useful if you can feedback to the organisers of any events- they will take this on board to investigate this and see how they can improve the service for next time. I hope to see the trend continue over the years and seeing access going strength to strength.

If there are any suggestions you would like to make or give me a head up for any upcoming performances at a venue or event that will be accessible, please do email daseaccess@gmail.com.

To view David’s site and see the current listings he has, go to: www.daseaccess.com

Image courtesy of Adobe Stock photos