About Us |
About Our Organization
Accessible Arts, Inc. was founded in Columbus, Ohio in 1991. It is a non-profit organization whose goal is to make the visual and performing arts more accessible to people with disabilities. We also serve as a clearing house for information about other audio described events in Central Ohio. Audio description provides consumers with real-time descriptions and background information during a movie or other event. We set up a portable transmitter in the theater, and a professionally trained Audio Describer sits in the audience to transmit information to the visually impaired consumer. The consumer listens to the description through a small radio receiver. By hearing the voice of our Describer in one ear and the show's audio in the other, consumers are able to enjoy both the narrative and the dramatic elements of the presentation.
Accessible Arts, Inc. provides audio description of a current film usually once a month at no cost to the moviegoer (beyond the patron's usual admission charge to the theater). Many people who are blind or visually impaired in Central Ohio have discovered that with audio description they can enjoy first run feature films along with their sighted friends and family. Each summer Accessible Arts, Inc. assists the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) with publicity for the audio description of a few selected movies in their classic movie series. In addition to describing current films; Accessible Arts, Inc. has assisted local theatrical organizations with audio descriptions for their performance schedule. Accessible Arts' Board members volunteer their time to serve as a member to our Board. Additionally, we have many volunteers who help our consumers purchase their tickets and concessions; and then help them to find seats in the theater. The only individuals who receive monetary compensation are our Audio Describers. Accessible Arts, Inc. receives financial support from the Nationwide Insurance Enterprise Foundation, Columbus Chapter of the American Council of the Blind, and local Lion's Clubs. Accessible Arts was also blessed with contributions made in memory of Joann Fischer, who was one of our founding Board Members that passed away on August 7th, 2002. Additionally board members and visually impaired consumers have made substantial donations to our operating budget.
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Accessible Arts Inc.
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