Leading Tasmanian not-for-profit health and wellness organisation St Lukes and Theatre Royal have announced a new partnership aimed at improving accessibility and ensuring more people can experience live performance.
Through the partnership, a range of initiatives will be introduced to support audiences with diverse access needs.
These include Auslan-interpreted performances, audio-described shows for people who are blind or have low vision, the implementation of the Sunflower Program to help staff recognise and support people with hidden disabilities, and the introduction of St Lukes Sensory Packs for audience members who may benefit from additional support during performances.
Alongside the in-theatre experience the Theatre Royal will be working in collaboration with St Lukes to program a series of events in their Hobart wellness hub throughout the year starting with a dance workshop with Dancenorth Australia on Tuesday 7 April at 3.30pm.
The program reflects a shared commitment from both organisations to make arts and cultural experiences more inclusive and welcoming for the whole community.
“Theatre should be for everyone,” said Andrée Hurburgh, Theatre Royal Hobart’s Interim General Manager.
“This partnership with St Lukes allows us to take meaningful steps towards removing barriers so more people can experience the power and social connection offered by live performance.
"By offering Auslan-interpreted and audio-described shows, training our staff through the Sunflower Program and providing sensory packs, we are making sure audiences feel supported, welcome and included when they walk through our doors.”
St Lukes Chief Community Engagement Officer Shoshana Wall said the organisation was proud to support greater access to arts and culture in Tasmania.
“We know that the social connection that comes from cultural engagement and experiencing the arts plays a powerful role in people’s overall health and wellbeing. Supporting inclusive access to the arts directly aligns with our vision to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet,” she said.
“When more Tasmanians can participate in cultural life – regardless of ability, communication needs or sensory preferences – we build stronger social connections, which are fundamental to a healthy, thriving community.”
“St Lukes is proud to partner with the Theatre Royal Hobart to help create an environment where more Tasmanians can participate in and enjoy live performance.”
The accessibility initiatives will be rolled out across selected performances throughout the year, helping ensure that more audiences can connect with the Theatre Royal’s program in ways that meet their needs.
For more information about accessible performances and audience support services, visit the Theatre Royal Hobart website: www.theatreroyal.com.au/accessibility