When Taylor saw Taylor! Sign language service makes concert extra special for Donegal teen

A young Swiftie from Kilmacrennan enjoyed ‘the best show ever’ at the Eras Tour last weekend thanks to an inclusive new sign language service.

Taylor Beth McFadden, 14, who was born profoundly deaf, had the time of her life watching Taylor Swift with the assistance of three fun ISL interpreters.

The three interpreters didn’t miss a beat signing the show for attendees in a dedicated area of the Aviva stadium which was reserved for people with impaired hearing. A screen was also provided with written captions for the entire show.

Taylor Beth, her brother Flynn (9) and mum Alison were invited to sit in this section to sample the benefits of the award-winning Performance Interpreting team.

“It made a massive difference,” Alison said.“The interpreters weren’t just signing, they were putting all their energy into it. It was fantastic to watch. And in between songs, anything Taylor Swift said, they were signing.

“It really enhanced Taylor Beth’s experience at the concert. She felt she was part of it.”

After the concert, Alison reports that Taylor Beth’s review was “best show ever!” because she felt as though she didn’t miss anything.

“It was more emotional for me just watching her taking it all in, that they had gone to those lengths to make sure people like Taylor Beth were included. It was lovely,” Alison said.

The initiative is being rolled out at major gigs across Ireland and the UK as promoters take steps towards greater accessibility. People with hearing impairment can also request the service, and the company will do their best to organise access.

Watch the team in action here:

Previously at other shows, where it is particularly loud, Alison said she would often have to sign what is happening on the stage or repeat it for Taylor Beth to lip read. Performance Interpreting meant that Taylor Beth and her mum could soak up the atmosphere together.

“The Eras Tour was the best experience we ever had,” Alison said, crediting the entire Swiftie fandom. “It was more the people that were at it, everyone was so lovely, trading bracelets and complimenting outfits.”

Taylor Beth, who is Fearless era Switie, rocked a sequin gold dress for the show and even got to trade friendship bracelets with Jedward. They’re not the only celebrity pals that she has. Four years ago, the creative teen set up an Instagram page, Sign To Hear, which she uses to teach everyone ISL. Taylor and her family have enlisted many famous helpers to create videos signing certain words, such as Laura Whitmore, Amy Huberman, Aisling Bea and Donegal’s own Noel Cunningham.

It was Taylor Beth’s Instagram that led her to be contacted by RTE presenter and ISL interpreter Sarah-Jane O’Regan to gain access to the Eras Tour ISL area last weekend. The family had already secured tickets for the in-demand shows but jumped at the chance to be part of the ISL experience.

“Times are changing and I am ever so grateful,” Alison said.