Ciara McCarthy: Watching Harry Styles in concert with BSL interpreters (BSL)

Hello, I’m Ciara McCarthy. I am profoundly deaf with bilateral cochlear implants, cerebral palsy and autistic. Recently, I attended Harry Styles’ concert in Edinburgh, and it was my first time using British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters at a show.

My first concert experience was nine years ago in Edinburgh. Ironically, it was One Direction at Murrayfield Stadium. However, I found it overwhelming and couldn’t understand what was happening during the concert. This time, I knew I needed BSL interpreters to understand what Harry was saying and singing, and I’m glad I did. It made me feel more connected to the experience and I didn’t feel like I missed anything.

Did you know you can get BSL interpreters at concerts?

Below is a clip of BSL interpreters at @Harry_Styles Night 1 at @BTMurrayfield, provided by @DFConcerts pic.twitter.com/BX5Kn57TbO

— Ciara McCarthy (@deafciara) May 27, 2023

I wish I had known about this option when I was growing up. I felt like I missed out on the “teenage” experience of attending concerts. It was disheartening that disabled seating was terrible, and my friends didn’t want to sit there. Feeling isolated from the experience because I am deaf was something I also struggled with. I kept comparing my experiences to those of my able-bodied peers.

It’s essential to bring more attention to these services since many deaf individuals miss out on experiences simply because they are unaware of their options. Some deaf individuals attend events but miss out on the interactions between singers and their fans.

I was aware of what was happening thanks to BSL interpreters, who informed me that Harry was talking to a pregnant lady about her gender reveal. Even before Harry started singing, the interpreters would sign the beat to the song, and it was incredible because it not only let me know the song was playing but I felt connected because of the energy the interpreters gave to the song.

It gave a whole new meaning to the song. All fans feel a sense of connection and enjoyment from the event, so it’s only fair that deaf fans have the same opportunity to experience this connection and joy.

I urge venues and events to include BSL interpreters and promote their presence, not only because they are amazing but also to encourage deaf youth to participate in the music and concert scene. While the BBC 1 broadcast of Glastonbury Festival with BSL interpreters is a great start, I believe there should be more significant promotion and feature of these interpreters to increase awareness of their availability.

So where can you find this service?
It differs for different stadiums within the UK and internationally; I will focus on more giant stadiums below, but this should be available in all stadiums if you request.

Performance Interpreting
If you need an interpreter for a venue or event you plan to attend, consider reaching out to Performance Interpreting. They provide interpreters for various gigs and venues. Check out their website at http://performanceinterpreting.co.uk/.

Wembley Stadium – London
BSL is integrated into all shows, and no request is required; however, if you are deaf and disabled – let the stadium know so that you can get seating near interpreters.

Principality Stadium – Cardiff
Please get in touch with the venue to request the BSL service by email or phone.
Email: customercare@wru.wales
Phone: 029 2082 2432

Anfield Stadium – Liverpool
Please get in touch with the venue to request the BSL service via email or phone.
Email: disability@liverpoolfc.com
Phone: 0151 264 2500

Murrayfield Stadium – Edinburgh
Please get in touch with the venue to request the BSL service.
ticket.centre@sru.org.uk.
0131 378 1600

If it would enhance your enjoyment of the event, you may request captioning at any venue.

Disclaimer
Please keep in mind that this service is for deaf and hard-of-hearing people, and I know hearing people love how expressive the interpreters are, but make sure that those who need this access can access it.

This blog aims to promote using BSL interpreters at concerts, to provide deaf young people a more enjoyable experience and reduce feelings of isolation caused by their deafness.

Ciara is a deaf and disabled activist who raises awareness of disabilities and life as a deaf/disabled student.