UNAA's ArtNexus Masterclass: Bridging Arts, Culture, and Inclusivity

Tirana Hosts Its First Audio Description Masterclass

On the 3rd and 4th of October, as part of the implementation of the ArtNexus Program in Albania, UNAA organized an in-depth two-day Masterclass on Audio Description. This session was facilitated by the distinguished Swedish authority, in the field of audio description, Peter Lilliecrona and is also an activity in the ambit of the Annex Program which represents UNAAs long term efforts in promoting the interconnection between arts and culture and human rights.

The Masterclass attracted 13 dedicated participants. This diverse group comprised professionals from varied sectors, including opera directors from the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, journalists from the Albanian National Broadcaster (RTSH) both from the Public Radio and Television as well as cultural journalists from the private media outlets. Another interesting participation was from the Institute of Cultural Anthropology and Art Studies (IAKSA) whose researchers contributed to the depth of discussions, while representatives of the National Employment Agency also showed the agency’s support for the program’s goals and voiced its commitment to integrating visually impaired individuals into the mainstream workforce. Significantly, on the first day of the Masterclass the Swedish Ambassador H.E Niklas Ström graced the occasion and commended the initiative, marking the event's notability.

The sessions were remarkably enriched by the participation and contribution of the students from the University of Arts, specifically from the Faculty of Visual Arts and Music. Notably, Blerina and Djego, both blind musicians, shared their invaluable experiences, shedding light on real-world challenges and possibilities.

During the intensive two days, the expert, Peter Lilliecrona employed a dual training methodology. Drawing on 'Syntolkning Nu's' successful practices in Sweden, he provided participants with a large theoretical foundation. This was complemented by practical exercises, providing attendees with hands-on skills in audio-visual description, insight on the latest equipment and rich examples from his past works in the Nordic countries.

Additionally, Peter Lilliecrona's expertise and the impact of the Masterclass reached a broader demographic through his insightful interview on Report TV’s morning show, where he discussed the importance of audio-visual description in today's media landscape.

Towards the conclusion of the Masterclass, there were ongoing discussions with the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet. This suggests potential collaborations or announcements in the near future, reflecting the session's success and its potential long-term impact.

In summary, the Masterclass, although a specific activity under the ArtNexus Program in Albania, promises to have significant implications for the arts and media sector, reinforcing UNAA’s commitment to professional development and inclusivity. Armed with insights and knowledge, the trained audio describers will hold the crucial duty of maximizing the visual elements presented, guaranteeing an optimal experience for the audience with visually impairments. As Peter concluded: “Both the performers and the audience place their trust in the skills of the audio describer’’.

Peter Lilliecrona

Born in '60s Stockholm and influenced by his actor father, Peter moved to Gothenburg at the age of eight and began a lifelong journey in the arts. Starting his career at the Gothenburg City Theatre in 1970, Peter transformed the Swedish arts scene by introducing audio description, making theatre and film more inclusive and accessible to everyone.
From conducting Sweden's first major audio description training in 1999, to founding "Audio Description Now in Sweden" in 2010, he has been a force for inclusivity and accessibility.
According to Peter: “I see my role as visual interpreter as a bridge between stage and salon.”With over 150 live-audio-described productions and 50 films, Peter is a true pioneer. His work has even been recognized by the Swedish Academy Glossary.