Strictly signing as the BBC welcomes the shows 20th anniversary:
Strictly Come Dancing, a much-loved series for sofas across the UK and beyond, will be the most accessible yet for its audiences. The introduction of live signing reflects the show’s commitment to increasing inclusivity for all its viewers.
Live signing will be available for viewers for the first time ever via BBC iPlayer and the red button. Alongside signing, audio description and subtitling will be available. Ultimately, this will ensure the audience will be able to fully immerse themselves in all of the action, live from the ballroom.
Kate Phillips, Director of Unscripted commented: “Strictly Come Dancing has always been at the forefront of inclusivity and representation, and I’m delighted that our 20th anniversary series will be the most accessible yet for our audience. Introducing live signing, alongside audio description and subtitling, means that there are more options than ever for the whole audience to come together to experience the glitz and glamour of our Saturday and Sunday night shows. This is a great launchpad for our exciting new BSL season next year which will feature special programming and online resources shining a spotlight on the beautiful language of BSL.”
Indeed, from Signature’s perspective, this will help to raise deaf awareness in cities across the country. Featuring BSL on popular mainstream shows raises awareness about the deaf community and the importance of sign language for thousands of users across the UK. We hope that the implementation of sign on TV will promote understanding and widen acceptance of different forms of communication. Additionally, we hope that live BSL, may inspire viewers to learn this expressive and engaging language themselves.
If you are inspired by signing on Strictly and want to learn, find a Signature Centre here.
Overall, the BBC’s inclusion of BSL on Strictly Come Dancing is a significant step toward making television more inclusive, accessible, and reflective of the diversity in society. We hope that Strictly is the first of many more shows who are taking this step of bridging the communication gap.
