This week we join many others in celebrating d/deaf, neurologically diverse and disabled artists throughout the coronavirus pandemic and beyond. #weshallnotberemoved  #endableism

We have had the pleasure to showcase and support a number of incredible works created and performed by d/deaf, neurodiverse and disabled artists at Dance City over the years.

As part of our commitment to improving accessibility for both artists and audiences in the past year we have:

– Hosted professional company Talent Hub in their premiere performance of HELM.

– Increased the number of BSL interpreted performances and events in our theatre.

– Introduced noise-canceling headphones and quiet spaces during performances.

– Introduced BSL, captioned video, and Easy Read information as standard for our Commissions programme.

– Supported the work of d/deaf and neurologically diverse artists through our Commission programme.

– Displayed BSL signage in and around our Café.

– Increased the wheelchair spaces to our theatre

– Worked in partnership with Protein Dance to provide a relaxed performance of The Little Prince free of charge to special educational needs and/or disabled school groups, supported by Muckle LLP.

– Supported Surface Area Dance in trialing ‘sub pack’ technology at our latest Season Launch, allowing d/deaf and hearing-impaired users to feel the physical sensation of sound.

We know that we still have a long way to go and are committed to listening and learning from d/deaf, neurologically diverse and disabled artists and customers and honoring our pledge to making dance; as a career, a hobby, or as an interest, accessible to all.

If you are a dance artist or enthusiast living or working in the North East that identifies as d/deaf, neurologically diverse or disabled, we invite you to share your thoughts and encourage you to get in touch with Interim Artistic Director Phil Douglas at phil.douglas@dancecity.co.uk

Pictured: HELM by Talent Hub, a co-production of TIN Arts and Yorkshire Dance that premiered at Dance City on Saturday 30 November 2019.