Visibility in the Arts: Examining the barriers experienced by visually impaired dancers in Northern Ireland

Abstract

This research brings forward the voices of three visually impaired dancers to unravel the complexities of accessing the dance sector in Northern Ireland. The multi-method approach used desk research, movement and conversation to investigate the existing barriers, intending to compile suggestions on how best to move forward. The findings identified the importance of the process in highlighting the challenges of being accessible whilst understanding the nuances of the individual experience, suggesting that no one approach is sufficient. The research also argues the significance of the role of dance as a research tool to interrogate and gather new knowledge and the importance of practice-based research methods to help fill the existing literature gaps.