This literacy system, devised by the French educator Louis Braille in the mid-19th century, remains a cornerstone for advancing autonomy among people who are blind or have low vision. It opens doors to culture and knowledge in tangible ways, enabling tactile exploration of artistic and literary content. The catalog presented here marks a forward step in accessibility, as Blind or low-vision audiences can experience the show’s material through touch. A collaboration between ONCE Alicante and the Alicante Coliseum reinforces a shared commitment to inclusive zarzuela programming, ensuring that audiences of diverse visual abilities can engage with live performance in meaningful ways.
In a publication commemorating a major milestone, essays and reflections were gathered from a diverse group of participants. They captured emotions, experiences, and insights about theatre, distilled into concise statements expressing how performance spaces can resonate with real life. The discourse underscores ONCE’s mission to grant blind and partially sighted individuals access to culture as a living, participatory experience. The organization emphasizes that participation should go beyond passive viewing, inviting blind audiences to be creative agents who support and enrich cultural events across all disciplines.
The catalog associated with this collaboration originated from a suggestion by the venue’s manager, who envisioned publishing the material in braille to accompany the exhibition. The idea was to extend the reach of the exhibition text so that braille readers could engage with the exhibit on equal terms, highlighting themes and context in a tactile format. The initiative reflects a broader principle: cultural accessibility is a collective responsibility that amplifies the value of art for everyone, not just for those who can see it with their own eyes.
During a morning reading, the braille edition of the book was explored by attendees in a formal ceremony held at the municipal archives. The event brought together key figures from the cultural council, archive leadership, and the theatre, along with curators and contributors who authored the exhibition texts. The atmosphere celebrated the intersection of culture, memory, and access, as participants acknowledged the importance of including blind audiences in the cultural landscape and ensuring that the full spectrum of the community can participate in and enjoy the arts. The reflections highlighted the printing and distribution of the catalog as a vital step in making culture accessible to all, regardless of physical limitations. The donation was appreciated as a unique contribution that enhances the Teatro Principal’s anniversary celebrations and the ongoing effort to broaden cultural participation across society.