Imagine a world where the electrifying energy of a live concert is accessible to everyone. In Australia, a quiet movement is making this vision a reality, focusing not just on access but on fostering a more inclusive community.
The need for accessibility in arts, theatre and music is paramount to ensuring that all individuals can participate equitably in these cultural experiences. Recent reports and surveys, such as the Accessible Music Venues Report 2023 by Music Victoria and the Audience Outlook Monitor, highlight significant access barriers faced by a broad spectrum of audiences, including people who are deaf, immunocompromised or carers for older adults.
Leading this revolution is Auslan Stage Left (ASL), championing the cause of making live music, theatre and events accessible to Auslan users in Australia. Their efforts are creating unforgettable experiences for all and nurturing a strong sense of belonging.
The genesis of Auslan Stage Left.
Founded in 2013 by Susan Emerson, Medina Sumovic and Stef Linder, Auslan Stage Left (ASL) was born out of a collective vision for equal access to the arts. Susan Emerson, a distinguished NAATI Conference Level interpreter and WFD Accredited International Sign interpreter with over 35 years of experience, brought her expertise in musical theatre and complex language needs. Together with Medina Sumovic, an acclaimed deaf actress, director and language consultant, and Stef Linder, an experienced deaf interpreter and trainer, they addressed a critical gap in the Australian arts scene.
Since its inception, ASL has been committed to making theatre, comedy and festivals accessible to Auslan users. One of its early successes was the War Horse show, which drew 150 deaf or hard of hearing attendees to each of its two sold-out performances. This achievement highlighted the significant demand for Auslan-interpreted theatre, and propelled ASL to national recognition.
The turning point: partnership with Get Skilled Access.
A significant turning point for ASL came with the launch of Ability Fest in 2018. Organised by the Dylan Alcott Foundation and Untitled Group, Ability Fest has hosted some of the biggest names in the industry and raised just shy of $500,000 to help young Australians with disability fulfil their potential through the foundation’s grant program.
Ability Fest is Australia’s pioneering inclusive and accessible music festival, having successfully hosted four editions in Melbourne, Victoria. From the outset, Get Skilled Access (GSA) has been the festival’s dedicated partner in accessibility and inclusion. Their mutual commitment to making live music more inclusive struck a chord with ASL. When Susan Emerson contacted GSA’s Co-CEO Zack Alcott via social media, it ignited a transformative collaboration that is reshaping the Australian live music scene.
Ability Fest, GSA and ASL’s partnership elevated Auslan interpretation at live music festivals and events to new heights. The inaugural Ability Fest featured six interpreters, setting a groundbreaking standard for live music accessibility. This collaboration highlights their commitment to equality, accessibility and the belief that everyone deserves to enjoy the power of live music.
A cultural shift in live music in Australia.
The success of Ability Fest ignited a broader cultural shift in the Australian live music scene. Major events and concerts began to recognise the importance of Auslan interpretation, with Taylor Swift’s concerts featuring interpreters becoming a turning point in mainstream awareness. The sight of interpreters on stage, passionately conveying the lyrics and emotions of the music, captured public attention and highlighted the richness of deaf or hard of hearing users’ cultural experiences.
This shift was significantly propelled by GSA, acting as the bridge between Auslan Stage Left and Live Nation, Australia’s biggest live music and entertainment promoter.
Transforming accessibility through partnerships.
Live Nation, one of the biggest players in the music industry, is responsible for countless tours, festivals and events featuring some of the world’s most renowned artists. GSA’s introduction connected ASL with this powerhouse, creating a ripple effect that transformed the landscape of Auslan interpretation in Australian live music.
This partnership between ASL and Live Nation acted as a catalyst. Live Nation’s extensive network allowed ASL to extend its services to a wide array of events, from massive stadium concerts with international superstars to smaller gigs showcasing local talent. This newfound accessibility ensured that deaf or hard of hearing concert-goers could fully experience the electrifying atmosphere and be part of the vibrant live music community.
A cornerstone of inclusivity.
With over 3,000 events under their belt, Auslan Stage Left has become a cornerstone of inclusivity in Australian live music. Auslan interpreters are no longer a rarity but a standard at concerts and festivals. Their presence doesn’t just enhance communication; it adds an entirely new dimension to the performance. The interpreters’ energy and passion allow deaf or hard of hearing users to not only understand the lyrics but to truly feel the music’s raw emotion and energy.