New Vision for Independence is proud to highlight a groundbreaking step forward in accessibility. A Morgan Wallen concert at the University of Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (“The Swamp”) on May 15 will feature live audio description for a blind attendee. This marks the first time live audio description will take place at the Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, which is an accommodation rarely seen in large-scale concerts and believed to be among the first of its kind for a major stadium touring show in the United States.
The audio description will be provided by The Audio Description Initiative (ADI), a nonprofit organization dedicated to making live arts, sports, and events accessible to people who are blind or have low vision throughout Florida and beyond. ADI worked in partnership with the University of Florida Athletic Association to make this accommodation possible.
While audio description is common in theater and performing arts settings, its use in large-scale live music events remains extremely limited. Research shows only a handful of comparable examples globally, underscoring the significance of this effort.
At the center of this milestone is Christine Delmonico, CVRT, Independent Living Skills and Braille Coordinator at New Vision for Independence. Delmonico, who is blind, initiated the request and worked extensively to advocate for the accommodations needed to attend the concert independently, demonstrating the powerful impact of self-advocacy paired with professional accessibility solutions.
“When you dare to dream, dare to imagine; anything is possible,” said Delmonico. “As an educator and advocate for my community, I lead my life faith over fear. The only two things I am unable to do in this world is drive a car and fly an airplane as a person who is blind. With this outlook on life, I can overcome barriers that prevent me from leading a life of independence.”
Attending a concert of this scale independently requires extensive planning, coordination, and advocacy. For individuals who are blind or have low vision, it often involves working closely with venues to ensure reasonable accommodations are in place.
“If you can’t see or you have a disability where you require accommodations, attending a concert of this magnitude independently takes a great deal of planning, educating the venue, and a truckload of confidence,” Delmonico added. “Advocating for myself and others takes fortitude, determination, and a never give up attitude. Never give up, never back down, and never let them tell you no.”
ADI’s involvement was key in turning this request into reality. Professional audio describer Stasha Boyd of ADI will provide live narration during the concert, describing visual elements such as stage movement, lighting, and crowd interaction, which brings the full concert experience to life.
“This isn’t just about one concert—it’s about raising the bar for what accessibility should look like everywhere,” said Chantel Buck, CEO at New Vision for Independence. “People who are blind deserve full, meaningful experiences in every part of life, including live entertainment. When we expect more and advocate boldly, we don’t just remove barriers—we change what’s possible.”
Audio description provides real-time narration of visual elements such as stage production, pyrotechnics, performer movement, and audience interaction, allowing individuals who are blind or have low vision to experience aspects of live performances that would otherwise be inaccessible.
By bringing audio description into a major concert setting, this effort highlights both the growing need for accessibility in all forms of live entertainment. Organizers hope this moment will pave the way for future collaborations and more inclusive concert experiences nationwide.
