The Auslan Revolution: Transforming Live Music Accessibility in Australia
Revolutionising Live Music for Auslan users.
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.
With over 1 in 6 Australians experiencing some degree of hearing loss, the impact is substantial. However, the potential benefits of addressing this issue are immense. According to the WHO, a global investment of just $1.40 per person in ear and hearing care could yield a return of nearly $16 for every dollar spent.
The need for accessibility in arts, theatre, and music is paramount to ensure 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 those who are Deaf, immunocompromised, or carers to older adults. These barriers are not just physical but also encompass communication, attitudes, and economic factors.
For instance, 26% of Australian arts audiences’ face access issues, and 35% of Deaf community feel excluded from the arts. Furthermore, safety concerns and post-pandemic apprehensions have heightened these challenges.
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 nurturing a strong sense of belonging and creating unforgettable experiences for all.
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 and WFD Accredited International Sign interpreter with over 35 years of experience, brought her unparalleled 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 the Auslan users. One of its early successes was the “War Horse” show, which drew 150 Deaf 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 GSA
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 living with a 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. Our 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. It showcased the potential for fully inclusive music festivals and underscored the importance of having skilled interpreters like those from ASL. This collaboration highlights our 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 recognize 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 the Auslan users cultural experience.
This shift was significantly propelled by the pivotal role of Get Skilled Access (GSA). GSA, recognising the growing demand for accessibility, acted as the bridge between Auslan Stage Left (ASL) and Live Nation, Australia’s biggest live music and entertainment promoter. Live Nation is a behemoth in the industry, responsible for countless tours, festivals, and events featuring some of the world’s biggest 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 their services to a vast array of events, from massive stadium concerts featuring international superstars to intimate gigs showcasing up-and-coming local talent. This newfound accessibility ensured that Auslan users concert-goers could finally feel the music, experience the electrifying atmosphere, and truly be part of the vibrant live music community.
With over 3,000 events under their belt and counting, Auslan Stage Left has become a cornerstone of inclusivity in Australian live music. Auslan interpreters are no longer a rarity, but a standard. Their presence isn’t just about communication; it’s about adding another layer of depth to the experience. The interpreters’ energy and passion become an integral part of the performance, allowing Auslan users to not just understand the lyrics, but to truly feel the raw emotion and energy of the music. They’ve become a main attraction in themselves, a testament to the power of inclusivity and the enriching experience it creates for everyone involved.
Community Feedback and Impact
Feedback from Auslan users on Auslan interpretation at live music events in Australia has been overwhelmingly positive. This ongoing dialogue ensures that Auslan remains responsive to the community’s needs and continually enhances its services. The positive impact is unmistakable. Accessible performances have experienced a significant increase in attendance from Auslan using audience members, revealing a previously unmet demand and a profound appreciation for inclusivity.
However, challenges remain. Ticket pricing can still be a barrier, and ensuring flexible and affordable seating options is an ongoing effort. Despite these hurdles, the active involvement of over 16,000 Auslan users in Australia signifies a vibrant and engaged community eager to participate in the rich tapestry of cultural events. ASL is committed to working alongside this community to break down these barriers and ensure a truly inclusive experience for everyone.
The Future: Expanding Access and Building Community
Looking ahead, Auslan Stage Left (ASL) isn’t resting on its laurels. Their vision extends far beyond past achievements. Fuelled by the overwhelmingly positive response from Auslan users and the growing recognition of inclusivity’s importance, ASL is dedicated to further expanding access to the vibrant world of live music and cultural events.
A key focus is bolstering their interpreting force. By training more highly skilled Auslan interpreters, ASL aims to bridge the gap between Auslan users and the ever-increasing number of events seeking to embrace inclusivity. This isn’t just about offering basic communication; it’s about creating a truly enriching experience. ASL understands the vital role interpreters play in conveying not just the lyrics, but the raw emotion and energy that defines a live performance.