Arts Access

AMPAG companies celebrate and support access to patrons of all abilities to the performing arts.  New  initiatives being adopted by WA Ballet, Melbourne Theatre Company and Sydney Theatre Company include tactile or touch tours where vision impaired patrons can experience the costumes and set before the show with their other senses. 

This year Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will host a talk on Beethoven’s genius developing as a result of his deafness and not despite it. The Malthouse in Melbourne will also host Back to Back Theatre Company in the world premiere production of GANESH VERSUS THE THIRD REICH.  Back to Back employs a full time ensemble of six actors perceived to have a disability and creates work that focuses on moral, philosophical and political questions about the value of human lives.

Companies are also partnering with communities to host performances which are Auslan interpreted, audio described or captioned. There are special dates for these shows throughout their seasons - visit the companies’ websites or phone the box office to enquire.

AMPAG has strong connections with Arts Access Australia (AAA), through the national Arts Peak network. AAA supports Australian artists with disability.

Create your Disability Action Plan

Disability Action Plans (DAPs) are being developed by cultural institutions all over Australia. Companies have found that they are opening up opportunities to both expand their audience base and be more creative in programming.  To find out how to develop a DAP you might want to check out the Victorian Government Office for Disability guide here: http://www.officefordisability.vic.gov.au/developing_a_dap.htm

Companion Card Scheme

All 28 AMPAG companies take part in the National Companion Card scheme which allows people with a disability to purchase a concession ticket for themselves and receive one free for their companion carer. The companies do not receive extra funding to take part in the scheme.

For information on which arts companies and venues are affiliated with the scheme visit the Companion Card web page.