Accessing the Arts with the RSA Performing Arts Network

Can technology make an effective difference in promoting equality and inclusion - or are attitudes to access still the biggest barrier?

Join us for an RSA Performing Arts Network event using the RSA Ideas format. Apply to share your arts for social change idea and receive support from the network to turn it into action.

Over the last few decades, the use of technology such as captioning and audio description has played a large part in making the arts and culture much more accessible to Deaf and disabled audiences. Emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality also offer exciting possibilities for increasing access to the arts. But, in this day and age, are we relying too much on technology and forgetting a more human centred approach? And how can the two complement each other?

“Everyone has the right freely to participate in the cultural life of the community”
Article 27, United Nation Declaration of Human Rights

Co-host theatre company Graeae champions the inclusion of D/deaf and disabled people in the arts. At this event, attendees will have the chance to see the company's award winning home and hear how they have been pioneering creative access. 

Do you have an idea along this theme or more broadly on arts for social change? The network invites Fellows, colleagues and friends to apply to give a 5-minute pitch on the night, with time for the audience to offer their comments and questions to help turn ideas into action. Plus, a chance to connect with others who are keen to create more and better access to the arts for everyone. Apply when booking your ticket before 5pm on Monday 30 September.

The evening will begin with the opportunity to hear from Jenny Sealey, Artistic Director of Graeae, about how the company has been at the forefront of pioneering creative access since 1980. It will then will follow the RSA Ideas format of quick fire pitches and networking.

Book now and if you have an idea that will improve access to the arts that you would like to pitch please register that too.
All are welcome, and this event is free to attend. Non-Fellows and Fellows can get involved, ideas big and small.

About Graeae:
Graeae’s work -

• · Boldly places Deaf and disabled artists centre-stage
• · Pioneers a radical dramatic language by exploring the “aesthetics of access”, creatively embedding tools such as audio description and sign language in all its work

Graeae champions the inclusion of Deaf and disabled people in the arts through:

• · Intensive actor and writer training initiatives
• · Access support for creative and learning situations

· Empowering workshops and training programmes for young artists, led by inspiring role models

Location: Graeae, Bradbury Studios, 138 Kingsland Road, London E2 8DY

If you have any access requirements or require any reasonable adjustments, please let the team know: networks@rsa.org.uk. Please also let us know if you have any dietary requirements or severe allergies.