Sector-wide survey into Deaf-accessible theatre

SPIT, the organisation that advocates for Sign Language Interpreted Performances, is conducting a survey to find out more about the use of British Sign Language (BSL) in arts and cultural organisations. Part of an organisational review funded by Arts Council England, the research aims to help SPIT better understand the needs of its three groups of stakeholders: BSL users, theatres, and BSL interpreters working in theatre. Issues explored in the survey include trends in provision, outreach activities, staff expertise and working with interpreters. The findings will guide SPIT’s upcoming programme of activities, in order to best champion accessibility of the arts for the profoundly Deaf, and provide an accurate overview of the ‘state of play’ of BSL interpretation for public events.