Harkins screenings will test new technology for hearing, visually impaired

Harkins Theatres in Yuma will offer demonstration screenings for the hearing and visually impaired to introduce newly available technology providing closed captioning (CC) and audio description (AD) services Saturday morning.

The free demonstration will be offered in conjunction with a screening of “Finding Nemo.” It will be held at 10 a.m. at 1321 South Yuma Palms Parkway. For more information call 329-9055 or log onto www.harkinstheatres.com.

Seating for the demonstration screening is free, but space is limited. Those interested in attending the screening must RSVP by filling out a form at http://www.harkinstheatres.com/accessibilitydemorsvp.aspx.

RSVPs can also be made via phone by contacting an event coordinator at (480) 627-7777. Attendees must RSVP for the demonstration by Thursday.

“I'm hoping that Yuma will get the word out and we can fill the theater,” said Sherry M. Appleby, co-owner of Hearing Aid Specialists, Inc. “We are very lucky to have Harkins here and their support... for all of Yuma's residents. This is a very expensive undertaking. I have used all the technology and it simply is wonderful.”

Those attending the demonstration will be given either a CC device or an AD Headset, depending on their needs. Both devices are wireless.

The CC devices are personal monitors with digital text displays that easily attach to cup holder armrests and allow the user to adjust the monitor to their preferred position.

Those who are visually impaired can receive additional audio narration with their personal AD headset. The headsets provide the user with additional description of the visual setting and action taking place on the screen.

The Yuma theater is already equipped with assisted listening devices used to amplify the movie soundtrack for guests who are partially hearing impaired. The devices are wireless headsets that receive a signal allowing the user to customize the volume to the level they choose.

The technology is “available at no additional cost to the moviegoer, for any film and for any showtime, as long as the movie has been provided with captions or descriptions by the distributing studio,” Appleby added.