The ‘game changer’ glasses transforming viewers’ experience at a Welsh cinema

A cinema has become the first in Wales to introduce ground-breaking technology transforming the experience of deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences. Gwyn Hall in Neath, which is also a theatre, has introduced WatchWord, an always-on closed-captioning system. People are given augmented reality glasses that have broadcasting captions, and when worn they allow users to enjoy captions at any film.

This is unlike traditional open-caption screenings which are limited to specific showings. The captions are discreet, visible only to those wearing the glasses, and appear directly in the viewer’s line of sight.

The lightweight glasses can be worn over prescription lenses and around cochlear implants, ensuring comfort and accessibility for a wide range of users. Stay informed on everything Neath Port Talbot by signing up to our newsletter here.

The technology features several different functions for audiences -Credit:WatchWord

Jamie Brown, CEO of Celtic Leisure, which owns the cinema, said: “We’re proud to be the first cinema in Wales to bring WatchWord to our audiences.

“At Gwyn Hall, we believe cinema should be for everyone, and this innovation means our deaf and hard-of-hearing customers can enjoy the same choice, freedom, and experience as every moviegoer.

“Our mission is to help people live healthier, happier, and more connected lives – physically, mentally, and culturally, by delivering inclusive, high-quality services that strengthen communities. WatchWord is a true game-changer in making film accessible to all. The launch of WatchWord firmly cements Gwyn Hall’s reputation as a leader in accessibility and inclusivity – and marks a major milestone in bringing the magic of cinema to all.”

Chief operating officer of Built For Good, the makers of WatchWord, Tabitha Allum added: “It’s wonderful that Gwyn Hall is leading the way as the first cinema in Wales to offer WatchWord.

“This marks a real milestone for audiences who are deaf or hard of hearing, giving more people the chance to enjoy films together on the big screen.

“The introduction of the closed captioning solution WatchWord at the Gwyn Hall in Neath is fantastic news for the area and those customers who will benefit from this cutting-edge technology.

“The team at the venue have always been very thoughtful when considering inclusivity and the needs of all their customers, and this announcement further opens up the big screen experience to the local deaf and hard of hearing audience allowing customers to access and enjoy a broader range of films at significantly more times across each week.”

UK Government funding has helped the cinema get hold of the technology -Credit:WatchWord

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and has received £8,665.

Managed by Neath Port Talbot Council (NPT), the aim of the funding is to support projects that invest in the area’s local heritage and culture (including the arts), which have a positive impact on wellbeing, social cohesion, tackling isolation and facilitating access to services.

The UKSPF Place Prosperity Fund is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

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