KU News Release

Audio-Reader service improves the view for Starlight Theatre patrons

LAWRENCE — Volunteers from Audio-Reader Network at the University of Kansas are helping set the scenes at Starlight Theatre.

Every Sunday, Audio-Reader sends two people to the theatre based in Kansas City, Mo., to describe to blind and visually impaired patrons the non-verbal action taking place on stage. Currently playing at Starlight is “The Wizard of Oz.”

Jennifer Nigro, volunteer coordinator at Audio-Reader, said the service has been in place for about eight years.

“The reason we provide this service is to enhance the enjoyment of live theater performance for visually impaired people, as well as anyone in the general public who might have trouble seeing the stage.”

To participate, Starlight ticket holders can pick up a small receiver and headphones from the Ovation gift shop. When the show is over, the equipment is returned to the gift shop. There is no cost to use the equipment.

Offered as a public service, Audio-Reader is a reading and information service for blind and print-disabled individuals in Kansas and western Missouri.

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