Short definition
Audio description is the verbal description of visual content for blind or visually impaired people – an essential tool for accessible events.
Detailed explanation
Not all participants experience what happens on stage in the same way. For people with visual impairments, audio description opens up the visual action: a trained narrator describes in brief, precise sentences what's currently visible – gestures, facial expressions, entrances and exits, presentation slides, video clips.
The description is phrased to fit naturally into the pauses in the program. This requires not only linguistic skill but also thorough preparation: the AD narrator knows the program in advance, marks description windows, and coordinates with the production team.
Technically, audio description is treated like its own interpreting booth: the narrator sits in a separate room or booth with a clear view of the stage, and their commentary is transmitted to the relevant participants via receiver devices – either by infrared or through a dedicated audio system.
Relevance in this subject area
Audio description is a core element of accessible event planning and is becoming increasingly important as B2B requirements for inclusion grow.
Practical example
At an awards ceremony with blind guests, the AD narrator describes the award presentations, stage designs, and video clips live. Participants receive the commentary discreetly through an earpiece.
Related terms
Accessible events, Induction loop, Live captioning, Sign language interpreting, Inclusive solutions