Sharing Support for a growing movement
At Design With Us, we believe in the transformative power of community and the arts. That’s why we are proud to support the EpiArts Alliance, an initiative dedicated to creating inclusive and safe spaces for individuals living with epilepsy and those who are photosensitive in the performing arts. The organization evolved after one of its founders approached Design With Us to solve a design problem around flashing lights in theatres. We have provided guidance that led to twists and turns we could have never expected - and we are so proud of what they’ve built!
Anzli and Heather McNew
Meet Anzli and Heather McNew, the founders of EpiArts Alliance. They reached out to Design With Us after Anzli wanted to see her uncle perform in a Broadway musical. They discovered it was not easy to determine which light cues might be unsafe for her.
Click here to watch the story.
Over the last year, we’ve guided Anzli and Heather in identifying solutions that can make theatre more accessible and enjoyable for individuals sensitive to flashing lights.
They asked questions of light designers, associate/assistant designers, and company and stage managers, which led to some big ideas. Now, some amazing things are happening through innovative projects:
The FlashCue Project is collecting detailed data from Broadway shows—including the timing, duration, intensity, and color of flashing lights—we empower photosensitive audience members to make informed choices about their viewing experience.
We also supported the launch of a comprehensive Theater Lighting Guide on photophobia and photosensitive epilepsy for theatre lighting designers, engineers, and technicians.
EpiArts Alliance is asking questions and making connections in new ways, and Design With Us is honored to be the organization’s fiscal sponsor. We are excited to see their movement toward more accessible theatre experiences evolve. November is Epilepsy Awareness Month, and we are launching a fundraising campaign to support these groundbreaking projects. These initiatives aim to educate artists, performers, and production teams about the potential hazards of flashing lights and create an environment where everyone can safely experience theater productions.
Here’s how your support can make a difference:
Community Events: Funds raised will help host community gatherings, creating opportunities for artists with Epilepsy, photosensitivity and their allies to connect, share their stories, and raise awareness.
Educational Programs: Your donations will support the creation of training programs for lighting designers, ensuring they understand the importance of learning about photosensitivity.
Visibility and Awareness: Participation in Epilepsy Awareness Day in Los Angeles will allow EpiArts to continue networking & raising awareness
We invite you to join us in making a meaningful impact. Every dollar counts, and together we can create a world where the performing arts are accessible and inclusive for everyone.
Visit our Donation Page to contribute and be part of this important mission. Thank you for standing with us and EpiArts Alliance to advocate for a brighter future in the arts.
