The disability community has long recognized the accessibility benefits of digital tools,Footnote 129 which were adopted more broadly during early pandemic shutdowns through remote work and virtual performances.Footnote 130 While many companies have resumed in-person operations, digital options are still the only way some people can participate.Footnote 131
Opera has a long history of reaching new audiences through technology, from flagship streaming options to radio concert broadcasts. Digital practices continue to be popular in disability-led spaces: for example, Opera Mariposa continues to practice a digital-first strategy, while RestFest Film Festival is touted as a festival you can attend from bed.Footnote 132
Benefits of digital options may include:
- Prevention of exposure to in-person hazards
- Improved access for those facing barriers to in-person attendance (e.g., due to disability, caregiving responsibilities, travel costs)
- Broader talent pool and global audience reach
- Reduced venue and/or office rental costs
- Reduced absenteeism, higher productivity, and higher worker satisfaction
- Built-in accessibility features (e.g., captions, screen reader compatibility, automatic translation)
- Reduced commuting (also reduces carbon footprint, fuel costs, time commitment)Footnote 133
- Lasting assets (recordings) for future promotion or presentation
| Possible challenges | Possible solutions |
|---|---|
| Budget and equipment needs | Virtual meetings, remote work, and accepting digital auditions can be free. Livestream or recording setups can be as simple as using a smartphone, or as complex as budget allows. |
| Lack of internet connectivity | Consider phone data or mobile hotspots; USB Wi-Fi dongles/mobile internet sticks; public Wi-Fi; satellite internet rental. |
| Staffing needs | Running fully hybrid (in-person + online) events may require more personnel. Plan accordingly, or record in-person shows for later streaming; alternate between formats; pursue co-productions; present existing digital content. |
Latency (lag, time delay) e.g., when rehearsing via video conference | Consider low-latency platforms; record separately and sync with pre-recorded conductor, accompaniment, or click track; record together in-person for later use. |
| Accessibility and learning curve | Support audience members and staff; provide training and “how-to” guides; be attentive to digital accessibility. |
| Union jurisdiction | Live versus film performance may have different union requirements. Check parameters for union projects. |
| Cybersecurity | Assess and address digital hazards; foster good cyber security practices; provide moderation (e.g., monitoring comments or chat). |
| Environmental impact | Consider asynchronous work; energy-efficient equipment; equipment loans, rental, or joint ownership; low-resolution or camera-optional video meetings, while being mindful of access needs (See: 4.2 Accommodations and conflicting access needs). |
Learn more:
- Tools and tips for digital accessibility | Opera Mariposa
- Digital opera catalog | Opera America
- Canadian Centre for Cyber Security | Government of Canada
Footnotes (5)
- Kelsie Acton and Aimi Hamraie, “Life at a Distance: Archiving Disability Cultures of Remote Participation,” Just Tech, Social Science Research Council, June 28, 2022, https://doi.org/10.35650/JT.3036.d.2022. Back to text
- Brooks and Patel, “Challenges and Opportunities,” 5–6; Alex Wood and Daniel Perks, “Stage Shows, Musicals and Opera You Can Watch Online Now for Free,” WhatsOnStage, February 4, 2021, https://www.whatsonstage.com/london-theatre/news/stage-shows-musicals-opera-free-stream-online_51198.html/. Back to text
- Paula Holland et al., Breaking Down Barriers: How Remote and Hybrid Work Can Support Disabled Workers (Lancaster University, 2026), 37–45, https://wp.lancs.ac.uk/inclusive-working/files/2026/02/Inclusive-Remote-and-Hybrid-Working-Study_final-report.pdf; O’Connor, Wildflower, and Stevens, “COVID, Clean Air, and the Performing Arts,” 1:06:57; Sophie Eleanor Brown, “Missed Opportunities? Accessibility in ‘Post-Pandemic’ Academia,” Disability & Society 38, no. 7 (2023): 1271–75, https://doi.org/10.1080/09687599.2023.2190478; Jami McFarland et al., “Gray Arts Access: Crafting Creative Online Programming to Promote Older Adults’ Artistic Engagement In and Beyond Pandemic Time,” Frontiers in Sociology 9 (2024): 1454143, https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoc.2024.1454143. Back to text
- Hannah Edgar, “Silent Applause,” Opera America Magazine, January 28, 2023, https://www.operaamerica.org/magazine/winter-2023/silent-applause/; “What is RestFest?,” RestFest Film Festival, accessed July 10, 2026, https://www.restfestfilmfestival.org/about-restfest-film-festival. Back to text
- Monteiro et al., “The Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown,” 2–3; The Canadian Press, “B.C. Union Calls.” Back to text