Who We Are
Stage Interpreting Ireland is a specialist provider of Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreting for live performance and public events across the island of Ireland.
We focus exclusively on performance led ISL access, supporting festivals, theatre, concerts, spoken-word events and public programmes where timing, visibility and cultural awareness are critical.
Our approach recognises that live performance environments place unique demands on interpreters, requiring stamina, precision, strong visual presence and close collaboration with production teams.
By working within the rhythm and structure of each event, we ensure ISL access is delivered in a way that is meaningful for Deaf audiences and fully integrated into the live experience.
Access as standard, not an add-on
Professionalism and planning
Live Interpreting
Equal Access
Collaboration, not disruption
Visibility and respect for Deaf culture
(ISL) Irish Sign Language Interpreting
Why Us
Specialist Sign Language Access for Live Events
01
Live Event Specialists
Interpreters trained specifically for performance and live production environment
02
Production Aware Delivery
Working alongside technical, stage and production teams
03
Visible & Effective Access
Clear sightlines, lighting and positioning.
04
Professional & Reliable
Suitable for festivals, venues, councils and publicly funded events.
We recognise the importance of
Access
Artists and performers feel supported, not distracted
Deaf audiences experience events fully and visibly
Organisers deliver access confidently and professionally
Accessibility becomes part of the event identity, not an add-on
Our Connection to the Arts & Community
We recognise the importance of
1. Deaf culture and community
2. Representation and visibility within the arts
3. Access that enhances, rather than interrupts, live performance
Our work supports inclusive cultural experiences while respecting artistic intent, audience engagement and the practical realities of live events.
Access as standard, not an add-on
ISL access is most effective when it is considered at the early planning stage of an event. Early engagement allows time to review programme content, assess staging and sightlines, and ensure access integrates smoothly with production and technical plans. That said, we can also advise on later-stage planning where required.
Access as standard, not an add-on
Yes. Live performance environments place specific demands on interpreters that differ from medical, educational or community settings. These include timing, stamina, visual positioning, coordination with performers and production teams, and awareness of lighting, sound and audience flow. Performance-led ISL access requires specialist preparation and delivery.
Access as standard, not an add-on
Where possible, advance access to scripts, set lists or programme outlines is strongly recommended. This allows interpreters to prepare appropriately for tone, pacing, terminology and artistic intent. For more dynamic or improvised events, alternative preparation approaches are discussed during planning.
Access as standard, not an add-on
Interpreter placement is planned in consultation with organisers and production teams. Considerations include sightlines, lighting, stage layout, audience visibility and the overall event narrative. The aim is to ensure ISL access is clearly visible to Deaf audiences while complementing the live performance environment.
Access as standard, not an add-on
Clear, visible communication is essential. We advise organisers on how ISL access is described in event listings, promotional materials and on-site signage, ensuring Deaf audiences can easily identify accessible performances and feel welcomed as part of the audience.
Access as standard, not an add-on
Yes. Stage Interpreting Ireland operates within Ireland’s wider ISL interpreting landscape. Services outside our specialist remit such as medical, legal, educational or community interpreting — are referred to established providers. Likewise, we accept referrals for specialist performance-led work.
Access as standard, not an add-on
We support a wide range of live performance and public events, including theatre, concerts, festivals, comedy and spoken-word performances, community and cultural programmes, and civic or publicly funded events. Each project is approached with consideration for its specific audience, format and production environment.