The Process of Producing Audio Description for Television Dramas: A Case Study of the Drama Series DRAMA FOR ALL

Abstract

This research aims to study the production process of audio description services for the drama series ‘DRAMA FOR ALL’ on the Thai PBS TV station. The study employed qualitative research method. The researcher conducted in-depth interviews with the drama production team and the product development team, involving a total of 11 informants. Results underlined that the ‘DRAMA FOR ALL’ series is an innovative drama production that focuses to ensure equal access and utilization for all groups of people. Creative production and script writing methods have been adapted to facilitate access to media for the visually impaired, through three processes. Firstly, pre-production stage begins with involving all relevant parties in the drama production, consisted of the production team, director,
scriptwriter, and actors. They must have basic knowledge and understanding of the nature of media reception by disabled people. This stage involves studying the possibility of production requirements and surveying needs and viewing behaviors of visually impaired audiences. This leads to a process of producing audio descriptions that differ from those used in past television programs. Secondly, production stage covers controlling the production process to align with the objectives which focusing on creating understanding and enjoyment for the audience in watching the drama. Thirdly, post-production stage considers the accuracy and balance of various sounds in the drama which consisted of speech, narration, music, and sound effects, before proceeding to public relations, distribution, and evaluation. Television media producers are able to apply knowledge from this research as guidelines for the production of audio description in television dramas or other types.