VOX maximizes ODT as a Training Space for Access Providers and Hub for Accessible Performances: DASL Mentorship Cohort, DeafBlind module filming, Best Practices for Deaf actors, split ALD/AD headsets, and accessible performances (AD, ASL, open captions, preshows and sensory-friendly practices).
March 2025 – The PROM.
As part of Vox’s DASL training cohort, Vox and ODT co-hosted an in-person Director of Artistic Sign Language workshop for the cohort to show the integrated access models throughout the cast, crew, production design and storytelling – a hands-on and hands-up approach to Best Accessible Practices in Theater. DASLs were invited to engage with and observe the PROM ASL team during warm-ups, performance and post-show reflections.
Deaf actor and DASL cohort member Léon Jerfita played Principal Hawkins, and ASL/English interpreter Jessenia Kolaco played Staff Interpreter. DASL cohort leader MoMo Holt and Sam Gould who served as President and Co-Producer for Open Door Theater co-led the workshop in the space with opportunities to shadow and engage with PROM DASL Kristin Johnson with ASL team Atlas Mirrione, Jess Meyer and Erin McCarthy.
The Audio Description team consists of all VOX cohort members: in-show AD Dave Heard, pre-show AD Mikey Rose, Blind Expert Tanja Milojevic who consulted on the AD and ODT’s new models of AD/ALD headsets: groundbreaking equipment that integrates AD and show audio feed with volume control in each ear.
Vox and ODT co-led a Tactile Tour with ASL interpreters, sighted guides/describers to showcase the costumes and props. Vox is curating experiences and collecting feedback to develop freesource training modules and materials for Best Practices in DeafBlind accessibility.
Thanks to Vox’s networks, ODT partnered with Northeastern University ASL Interpreting Education students to offer practicum opportunities for their program – three backstage ASL/English interpreters were on rotation for rehearsals.
March 2024 – The Wizard of Oz
Open Door Theater partnered with Think Outside the Vox to lead and embed accessibility for cast, crew and production team alike. Vox co-founders and key members are representing on multiple accounts: Co-founder Sam Gould produced the show and oversaw all access points, including the accessible preshow, visual cuing systems, open captions, sensory-friendly practices and inclusive language and descriptions. Ingrid O’Dell served as an access coordinator during the audition process and as an a stand-by ASL interpreter/sighted guide for DeafBlind patrons. Interpreting team: Jessenia Kolaco, Atlas Mirrione, Aimee Robinson and Co-founder Christopher S. Robinson, led by Board member Kristin Johnson, DASL who coached Deaf lead Leon Jerfita (The Wizard/The Professor), led the ASL team and gave touch tours for Deaf and DeafBlind. Audio Description team: Board members David Heard and Amber Pearcy, plus Jen St. Pierre and Cira Bagwell from Vox’s second AD training cohort. ASL Handimations displayed during the show were created by Vox access tech lead, Connor Riordan. The Wizard of Oz got coverage from WBZTV!
