Captions in the arts

Using captions allows a wider range of people to enjoy the theatre experience. It enables approximately 4.5 million people with a hearing loss and many more people for whom English is a second language to better access theatre productions.

Captions are prepared from the script of the play by highly trained staff. During the performance, the captions are displayed on a screen, enabling the audience to read what is being said without obstructing the actors.

Theatre captioning is an example of 'inclusive design' because everyone can see the captions, whether they have a hearing loss or not. The screens are generally placed somewhere on the proscenium arch, but may also be integrated into the production's set.

The captions can also benefit hearing theatre patrons, especially when the performance involves dialects or strong accents, when words are being sung or when actors are speaking and singing off-stage.

A number of major Australian theatre companies regularly caption performances each season. We have compiled a schedule of captioned theatre performances. Please contact each theatre for ticket information.

If your favourite theatre doesn't currently offer captioning, ask at the box office when they will begin to offer the service.