Intro to Audio Description Training 2022
In 2022, Description Victoria Inc. will be offering an audio description training course for freelance practitioners. Over four weeks in March, trainees will learn the principles of audio description practice and how they’re applied in a variety of artistic fields.
Audio description adds live or pre-recorded verbal information to performances, events, exhibitions, and moving images. Designed for people who are Blind or have low vision, this information is delivered through a variety of means that complement the work.
Great describers come from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines in art, performance and media, combining their own expertise with expert training in description. We have described for theatre shows, exhibitions, documentary videos, films, fireworks displays and live art experiences. The practice of description can be adapted to any work in any medium.
When?
The training days are:
- Friday March 4
- Friday March 11
- Friday March 18
- Friday March 25
Training will take place from 10am to 4pm each day.
Participants will also be expected to complete some work between sessions including reading and individual/collaborative script development.
Where?
The training will take place at Malthouse Theatre – 113 Sturt St, Southbank.
How much?
The training costs $150 plus GST for each participant.
If this cost is a barrier to your participation, please reach out to lead trainer Will McRostie at will@descriptionvictoria.com.au for a discussion.
Who would it suit?
This course is open to anyone, and we are seeking a diverse cohort of participants. It would best suit people who have a work or study background in a creative field like theatre, visual art, curation, film & TV or design, and have the time to dedicate to the practice during the course and beyond.
A limited number of places are available and those interested are invited to submit a short Expression of Interest. The following characteristics will be strongly regarded in applicants:
- A strong command of English and an ability to craft clear and precise writing.
- Experience in performance, media, or public speaking.
- Familiarity with and experience in a creative field.
- Demonstrated interest or experience in Disability equality, accessibility, and inclusion.
- Interest in and availability for further training and future work in description.
Please note: Completing this course alone is not sufficient for participants to become practicing describers. Further intensive training and mentorship is required.
How to apply:
Please fill out the EOI on Google Forms here.
Expressions of interest are due by Wednesday February 16.
COVID Safety
This training is intended to take place in-person, so all attendees will be required to submit proof of their COVID-19 vaccination status or registered medical exemption to take part.
We will undertake training in line with the relevant requirements at the time of commencement, and further detail will be provided closer to time.
We reserve the right to postpone the training or change the delivery model if the situation demands before or during the training.
I have more questions:
Please read the FAQ below, or email will@descriptionvictoria.com.au with any further questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What outcomes can participants expect from the course?
At the end of the training, participants will:
- Have an understanding of the social model of disability and where audio description fits into the model as an assistive service for people who are blind or have low vision.
- Understand and demonstrate how to use language to describe objects, images and narrative media in accordance with the conventions of audio description.
- Know the best-practice standards for audio description practice in theatre and galleries.
- Understand and demonstrate proficiency in the secondary skills necessary to be a practicing audio describer.
What are the pathways into practice at the end of this course?
Participants are encouraged to apply their new awareness and expertise into their future professional roles and creative practice.
Some participants – subject the meeting of assessment standards and availability – may be invited to train further with Description Victoria, and have the opportunity to work with and within some of Victoria’s leading cultural institutions. More information will be provided to participants during the course.