ASU Gammage is partnering with GalaPro to provide a new accessibility and translation app to theater patrons. The service will be tested beginning June 19 for the run of Broadway show "The School of Rock."
GalaPro is an app that provides accessibility and translation, resulting in a better overall experience for users. Individuals using the app are able to enjoy the show in their own language with subtitles, dubbing, audio description, closed captioning and amplification.
Through the process of voice recognition, GalaPro provides real-time services.
The technology is the first of its kind. It gives attendees the opportunity to not only hear and see the performance but to fully grasp the entire context of the show.
“We are so excited to bring GalaPro’s innovative technology to our patrons to enhance the accessibility options we have available and continue to fulfill our mission of connecting communities,” said Erica Lin, ASU Gammage digital marketing specialist.
The application is compatible with any smartphone or tablet and is tailored to perform its services in any theater venue in the world. It’s free and only requires a one-time installation from either the Google Play store or Apple's app store.
Once downloaded, the next step is to simply choose the venue, the show and the preferred language. The application will then provide the content of the show with a complete itinerary and program. The users will have the option of choosing real-time services like subtitles, closed captioning, dubbing and an audio description program for the visually impaired.
What makes this GalaPro distinct is the technology designed to specifically adhere and respect the strict rules of theater. As soon as the application is being used, the airplane mode on the phone is activated, prohibiting any phone calls during the play. In addition, the content on the screen is displayed through a low-light black screen eliminating any distractions for any other attendee.
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