About SPIT

Introduction
Signed Performances in Theatre (SPIT) was formed in 1994 to encourage and facilitate sign language interpreted performances for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. The primary aim is to ensure that all deaf people have access to a broad range of theatre through the provision of high quality BSL (Britsh Sign Language) interpreted performances. A BSL interpreted performance is, in basic terms, a performance during which the vocal line is interpreted into sign language. The organisation has evolved out of a need not only to cater for deaf and hard of hearing audiences, but also for venues and companies themselves to be sensitive to and better educated about the issues and practice of providing BSL interpreted performances.

"When you stage sign language interpreted theatre you become part of building a society that recognises deaf people's rights. In the 21st century I hope that our children's' deaf children will enjoy theatre too."
Maggie Woolley, former Director of SHAPE London and a regular attender of sign language interpreted theatre.

Aims
SPIT aims to encourage and develop the provision of BSL interpreted performances of the highest quality, to ensure that the wide range of theatre experiences in the UK is accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing people.

The Organisation
SPIT has established a strong reputation and profile for work in the field of BSL interpreted performances since it was launched in 1994.

SPIT is a membership based organisation, theatre venues and companies pay an annual subscription for which they receive a range of benefits and services. SPIT has over 60 members across the country, representing a broad spectrum of arts organisations from large national companies to the smaller arts centre and community theatre. All art forms are represented. (Click here for the current member list)

The organisation is run by an elected executive which includes a representative from SHAPE, London's disability arts organisation.

Signed Performances in Theatre is a registered charity (no 1038247) and a limited company (no 2930326).

Achievements to date
Advocacy to raise standards

  • Launched national membership drive and raised the issue of BSL interpreted performances. Over 130 arts organisations have been members of SPIT since the organisation was established in 1994.
  • Published a Welcome Pack available to members detailing good practice in running a BSL interpreted performance programme.
  • Set up a database of qualified BSL interpreters regularly working across the UK.
  • Established a minimum standard of qualification for interpreters working on British stages through negotiations with industry lead bodies.
  • Set up a Deaf Focus Group for feedback on BSL, captioned performances and theatre facilities for hard of hearing people.

Training

Organised a range of seminars and training events, including:

  • 3 conferences which attracted over 250 participants from the arts and Deaf community.
  • Two SPIT BSL courses giving 27 theatre staff an introduction to BSL.
  • Nineteen Deaf Awareness Workshops providing training for 300 theatre staff.

Marketing

  • Launched SPIT News and Performance Listing; a newsletter distributed to Deaf individuals and organisations, key arts bodies, funding bodies and SPIT members.
  • Set up the first national database of Deaf people and organisations interested in BSL interpreted theatre.
  • Operates a National No Clash diary for all arts organisation promoting events for Deaf and hard of hearing people.
  • Launched a logo to denote BSL interpreted performances for use on theatre publicity, available free the logo is now widely accepted and is used outside theatre context to mean "deaf friendly".
  • www.spit.org.uk launched in March 2000 is a valuable marketing resource for SPIT and its members.
  • In addition to BSL interpreted shows, SPIT now promotes captioned performances given by members

Research

Published national research which builds into a comprehensive picture of the issues affecting deaf peoples attendance. Six reports are available to the public.

Future Plans include:
To Continue To Build Strong Links With The Deaf Community.

New Technology
SPIT will lead the debate regarding developments in deaf access and new technologies, becoming a resource for members considering the use of these technologies.

More Aspects of Theatre Access
In addition to BSL interpreted theatre, SPIT will promote captioned performances, integrated and Deaf theatre events and any recommended visual theatre or dance, thereby developing the listing and web site as a resource for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people.

Partnership Working
SPIT will stay within the remit of "theatre" at the present time concentrating on its theatre focus. "Theatre" does already include opera and dance with text. We will, however, work in other art forms via partnerships.

SPIT will do this by developing links with Museums and Galleries (MAGIC: Museums and Galleries in the Capital, for example), links with Cinema and look out for new organisations where partnerships can be sought.

Forging Links with Training Providers
The DDA gives a responsibility to the training establishments and the individuals. Opportunity to build in "access to theatre" and "deaf awareness training" into modules for students are there.

Source of Advice regarding the DDA
SPIT should become recognised as a source of advice for theatres on the Disability Discrimination Act. SPIT will make information on Deaf issues available and will respond to specific theatre-related enquiries.

Administration
SPIT has one administrator who works part time and will continue to employ freelance Deaf trainers and project workers when appropriate.

Finance
SPIT relies on membership fees and donations from trusts and foundations for its income. The organisation will continue to look at all potential funding opportunities to give SPIT a more secure financial footing as well as fund specific projects. All donations, large and small are vital. If you would like to support SPIT, please contact us.