Central Coast Council is working with Sweeney Interpreting to improve the accessibility of productions held at Laycock Street Community Theatre for the deaf community.

This new initiative brings three Auslan interpreted stage productions, plus a number of Auslan interpreted backstage tours to Laycock Street Community Theatre, making the productions more inclusive for visitors and the community.

Council Unit Manager, Leisure and Lifestyle Phil Cantillon said the Central Coast is home to a diverse and growing community and Council is committed to continuous improvement of accessibility, inclusivity and liveability within the community.

“Council has developed a Disability Inclusion Action Plan which sets out strategies to achieve positive outcomes for people with disability to fully participate in mainstream community life,” Mr Cantillon said.

“We are committed to increasing inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of community life including through this new initiative at Laycock Street Community Theatre, which provides accessibility for all who visit and enjoy the performing arts.

“Not only do we have three upcoming performances that are Auslan interpreted, but on Sunday 19 May the Theatre will be hosting Auslan interpreted backstage tours where visitors can experience areas such as the mainstage, backstage, dressing rooms and bio box, providing a unique ‘behind the scenes’ insight of Laycock Theatre.”

Mayor Jane Smith said inclusion and active participation are key to building a strong community.

“We are committed to creating a society where everyone belongs and everyone has the opportunity to fully participate in all aspects of community life, that is why belonging is at the heart of Council’s Community Strategic Plan,” Mayor Smith said.

“We will continue to create opportunities, for people with a disability in our community to enjoy the range of experiences and quality of life on offer on the Central Coast.”

Upcoming Auslan interpreted productions include:

• Sydney Comedy Festival, Saturday 8 June 8pm
• The Sapphires, Sunday 23 June 2pm
• Possum Magic, Saturday 31 August, 12pm

Free back stage tours for all ages will also commence on Sunday 19 May at 10am, 11am and 12pm and run for approximately 45 minutes each, providing a sneak peek into the performing arts.

Bookings are essential. For more information visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/theatres, or call or text 0439 370 117.

A number of seats are reserved for deaf and hard of hearing impaired patrons to ensure a good view of the interpreter and the stage. If you wish to be seated in this area for these productions, please contact Council’s Box Office and specify your requirements at the time of booking.

In Person: 10am-4pm Monday to Friday

Phone: (02) 43233 233

Email: LaycockStreetTheatre@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing can also call through the National Relay Service at no cost: TTY users can phone 133 677 then ask for 9250 1777. Internet relay users can connect to the NRS at www.relayservice.com.au for details, and then ask for 9250 1777.