TDNI delivers specialist captioning training for stage managers and technicians, supported by Belfast City Council
We are delighted to announce the successful delivery of our Captioning Training Programme, supported by Belfast City Council. This initiative marks a significant step forward in increasing accessibility across Belfast’s and Northern Ireland’s live arts and cultural sector.
In partnership with Digital 4, TDNI delivered two intensive two-day training courses designed specifically for Stage Managers, Technicians and Production Companies. The training has equipped participants with the practical skills and confidence to operate TDNI’s captioning equipment independently, embedding accessibility directly into live performance practice.
Led by Digital 4’s Director, Roger Graham, the sessions combined technical instruction with hands-on application. Participants explored captioning software, script formatting conventions, live cueing, and methods for managing unscripted dialogue and sound effects in real time. Each trainee created and peer-reviewed caption files in a supported learning environment, ensuring both technical competence and collaborative learning.
As part of this project, we were also able to carry out essential repairs and maintenance to our captioning equipment, ensuring it remains reliable and performance-ready for venues and other users. In addition, we filmed a series of practical training videos with Ben Smits, Theatre Technician, to create a valuable future reference resource.
Through this training, participating venues and freelance technicians have been supported to:
- Deliver captioned performances more regularly
- Reduce ongoing accessibility costs
- Reach wider and more diverse audiences
- Expand inclusive practice into their core programming
Commenting on the training, a participant said: “The training was really useful and relevant. I’ve been working with creatives and for audiences with access requirements and this was great training”
The programme directly supports Belfast’s cultural ambitions by strengthening City Belonging and City Creating. It fosters inclusion, ensuring d/Deaf, hard of hearing and multilingual audiences can fully engage with live performance. At the same time, it encourages innovation and new ways of working within the sector, positioning captioning as a standard, not an exception.
Ongoing monitoring will track the number of captioned performances delivered, audience reach, and the long-term impact of the training across. Early feedback from participants highlights increased confidence, improved technical knowledge, and a strong commitment to implementing captioning in upcoming productions.
We extend our sincere thanks to Belfast City Council for supporting this vital work. Together, we are helping to build a more accessible, inclusive and connected cultural city and region – one where everyone can experience the arts.
Theatre and Dance NI offer a range of specialised equipment available for hire, including Harlequin dance floors, portable ballet barres, and captioning equipment. Members benefit from discounted rates.