Attending live music events with a visual impairment: experiences, accessibility and recommendations for the future

Abstract

PurposeThe current article focuses on the experiences of live music event attendees with visual impairment (VI). It outlines the factors which impact on the accessibility of events and considers how accessibility might be improved for these individuals.Design/methodology/approachThe article reports on findings from a mixed-methods project utilising a structured interview study (N = 20) and an online survey (N = 94). Interview data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, providing in-depth insight into participants’ experiences before and during events. Quantitative survey data were analysed descriptively and statistically, and Thematic Analysis of open-ended responses was carried out.FindingsAttendance at live events varied amongst participants, and so too did the factors impacting on their attendance. Challenges were identified in relation to several key areas: accessing information and tickets, experiences with staff, navigation and orientation, and the use and availability of disabled facilities and specialist services.Originality/valueThis article is the first to offer in-depth exploration of music event accessibility for individuals with VI. It builds on existing research which has considered the experiences of deaf and disabled attendees but has not yet offered adequate representation of individuals with VI. The article offers practical recommendations for venues and organisers seeking to ensure accessible events for all and contributes to the wider discourse surrounding inclusivity at music, arts and cultural events.

The Musical Experiences of Adults with Severe Sight Impairment: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

“…Current findings expand on knowledge relating to the experiences of deaf and disabled attendees (Attitude is Everything, 2016Everything, , 2018, indicating that while live music events offer a meaningful and socially fulfilling pastime for attendees with SI, their needs have not yet been adequately addressed. Further discussion of how the barriers to live event attendance may be overcome for visually impaired attendees is provided elsewhere (Castle et al, 2022).…”