BEST PRACTICES OF WORKING WITH ASL INTERPRETERS

For THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS

  • Inform people working in the theater of the interpreted show ahead of time, especially people that will be interacting with guests

  • Ex: “There will be a guest in section *insert* using ASL interpreting services.

  • Do not say “hearing impaired” as this is a derogatory term. Instead say “person with hearing loss, deaf, hard of hearing, or ASL user.”

  • Provide interpreters with a digital (or print, if preferred) copy of the script as soon as interpreting services are secured. 

  • Provide coordinator or interpreters with any recordings (understudy recordings, production recordings, song recordings, etc.) and/or coordinate a preview night. This material is considered confidential and will only be used for the purpose of preparing interpretations.

    • Discuss if the DASL/DOI and interpreters feel access to a rehearsal would be beneficial

  • Inform interpreters of a contact person onsite that they can interface with for the duration of the event. Provide interpreters with that person’s contact information

  • Have a dedicated space for people accessing the interpreters. Consult with ACT to determine the best location based on distance and sightline. 

    • Include signage with the interpreting icon to indicate the ASL space, or post signs/tape over seats reserved for ASL guests

  • Ask that interpreters arrive before doors to check their setup. 

    • Test the light and ensure it doesn’t cut off parts of their signing space. 

    • Interpreters often appreciate a somewhat private space to use before the show and during intermission if possible. This allows for last-minute prep and adjustments to be made without interruption or distraction.

  • Block off seats that will be in the interpreters’ signing space. No one will enjoy the result of people occupying those seats.

    • Feel free to request a consultation from ACTinterpreting@gmail.com

  • If interpreters have been booked for a show be sure to advertise the show as having ASL interpretation on that date on any outward facing platforms.

Equipment:

  • Consult with the interpreters to determine if they will need in-ear monitors

    • If the venue does not own the equipment, ACT is able to provide. Contact ACTinterpreting@gmail.com with any questions.

    • If the venue is providing equipment, ensure it is fully charged and/or has backup batteries included.

  • Dedicated light

    • If a dedicated spotlight is not available, please provide a minimum of three portable lights with power.

  • Chairs or stools (one per interpreter)

    • Given the arrangement, interpreters may decide to stand.

  • Music stands (at least one, sometimes two)

  • Interpreters will often bring ipads, tablets, or laptops in order to access prep materials and lyrics. Please ensure their devices come through without issue

  • If your production is also using DOI services, please ensure there is a seat for them with a clear line of sight of the interpreters. Consult with interpreters or ACT if unsure of best placement.

Check out the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Standard Practice Paper regarding Performance Interpreting for more information about best practices:

https://riseinterpreting.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/PerformingArts_SPP.pdf

COMING SOON:

What is a DASL?

What is DOI?

What is a CDI?

Joshua Castille working as a Director of Interpreters