Panel 1: Telepresence Stage and CRIPtic Arts Present “Quality of life is not a measurable outcome”

A panel discussion of AHRC research project ‘A Telepresence Stage for Disability Performing Arts’, a residency programme with London-based performing arts company CRIPtic Arts (2024), one of the UK’s most acclaimed disabled-led arts groups, who recently performed at London’s Barbican. It culminated in a powerful online telepresence theatre production ‘Quality of life is not a measurable outcome’ (2024). Focussing on the phenomenological nature of the performance, its devising and realisation during residency sessions and rehearsals that linked remote performers from the UK and Singapore, four members of the project team offer presentations from different perspectives. Lead performer and writer Jamie Hale (CRIPtic Arts) provides autoethnographic reflection on the process and the socio-political aspects of the performance, Dr Jayne Lloyd (University of Brighton) offers phenomenological observations as a remote viewer, Professor Steve Dixon (LASALLE College of the Arts, University of the Arts Singapore) provides theoretical analysis and talks to performer Jade Ow Yanhui (ART:DIS Singapore) about her experience of remote choreography and direction, and panel chair Professor Paul Sermon (University of Brighton) analyses perceptual and proprioceptive aspects of digital telepresence scenography and access. The panel will unpack their experiences and encounters during the residency, including how they overcame technical and theoretical barriers and celebrated disability using vivid scenography and virtual imagery including flying wheelchairs with angel wings. They will discuss and demonstrate new methods and practical applications of telematic and design technologies to support accessibility and inclusion for disabled actors, producers and audiences. These offer a range of flexible options for participation; create a sense of liveness and togetherness for actors and audiences participating remotely; utilise and adapt widely available/off-the-shelf technology in theatres and at home; and stimulate new and different forms of interaction and engagement for disability arts.

As part of the panel, we will play the video recording of the CRIPtic Arts performance, which contains full BSL and captions throughout. Audio Description available here.

More info at http://www.telepresencestage.org.