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Theater Gets Smart Glasses for Deaf Patrons
7 Oct
Summary
- Smart glasses offer a new closed-captioning experience for theatergoers.
- The technology displays script lines directly onto the glasses.
- Temple University provides these glasses for free to those with hearing issues.
Live theater in Philadelphia has introduced an innovative solution for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. New smart glasses provide a unique closed-captioning experience, significantly improving upon existing theater accessibility options. This technology, known as WatchWord Live, transmits dialogue from the script via Wi-Fi directly to the wearer's glasses.
George Schofield, a theater enthusiast with hearing difficulties, was among the first to try the glasses during a production of Macbeth. He described the experience as exciting, enabling him to follow the play without missing any dialogue. Temple University, a center for this innovation, is offering four pairs of these smart glasses free of charge to those with hearing impairments.
This initiative aims to make the performing arts more inclusive. The technology is also being implemented in a few other Philadelphia theaters, extending its reach. The goal is to ensure that everyone can share and enjoy the theater experience together, breaking down barriers to access.
