'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' to hold Filipino Sign Language-interpreted show in Manila

Audiences who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing will soon be able to experience the magic of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” through a special Filipino Sign Language (FSL)-interpreted performance in Manila.

Producers of the Broadway musical announced that the July 22 staging at The Theatre at Solaire will feature live FSL interpretation as part of efforts to make world-class theater more accessible to Filipino audiences.

The initiative is being mounted in partnership with Deaf consultants and interpreters from the Benilde Center for Education Advancement of the Deaf (CEAD) and the School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies–Interpreting Education Program (SDEAS-IEP).

According to the organizers, the live interpretation will allow Deaf and hard-of-hearing audience members to fully enjoy the musical’s story, songs, and performances.

To improve accessibility, a dedicated orchestra seating section has been reserved for Deaf patrons and their companions, providing clear views of both the stage and the FSL interpreters. The production is also offering discounted seats through a special promo code, while holders of valid Persons with Disability (PWD) identification cards may avail of standard PWD discounts at TicketWorld outlets.

“Live theatre should be an experience everyone can enjoy,” said Marc Routh, CEO of Broadway Asia.

“We’re proud to continue expanding access to the performing arts through this FSL-interpreted performance. ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ is a story about imagination, possibility, and wonder, and we’re excited to help make that experience more inclusive for members of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community,” he added.

The accessibility initiative builds on ongoing efforts by GMG Productions and its partners to make international theater productions more inclusive in the Philippines.

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl and follows the story of young Charlie Bucket, who wins a golden ticket granting him access to the mysterious chocolate factory of eccentric inventor Willy Wonka.

The Manila production stars Karylle as Mrs. Bucket and runs at The Theatre at Solaire from July 8 to July 26.

The musical features songs from the 1971 film adaptation, including “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” alongside an original score by Grammy and Tony Award-winning songwriting duo Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. — LA, GMA News