University of Brighton Graduate Wins Top International Award for Transforming Theatre Access

A graduate of the University of Brighton has received international recognition for his work improving access to theatre for visually impaired communities in Vietnam. Luong Ngoc Linh was honoured at the Study UK Alumni Awards in Vietnam, where he won the Culture, Creativity and Sport Award for his pioneering accessibility project, “Ear to Eye”. The […]

A graduate of the University of Brighton has received international recognition for his work improving access to theatre for visually impaired communities in Vietnam.

Luong Ngoc Linh was honoured at the Study UK Alumni Awards in Vietnam, where he won the Culture, Creativity and Sport Award for his pioneering accessibility project, “Ear to Eye”.

The project reimagines the traditional theatre experience by introducing enhanced live audio description and immersive sound design delivered through specialist headsets. Rather than treating accessibility as an add-on, Linh’s approach integrates inclusive design at the core of performance, allowing visually impaired audiences to experience productions independently and with greater depth.

His work challenges conventional assumptions that theatre is primarily a visual medium. By prioritising sensory storytelling through sound, narrative detail and spatial audio cues, “Ear to Eye” opens cultural participation to individuals who have historically faced structural barriers within the performing arts sector.

Linh developed the foundations of the project while studying for a Master’s degree in Sequential Design and Illustration in Brighton. He has credited his time at the university with shaping his research-led and socially engaged creative practice, enabling him to explore how design can address real-world inequalities in access to art and culture.

The international award recognises alumni of UK universities who demonstrate significant impact in their professional fields. Linh’s achievement highlights the role of British higher education in fostering globally minded creatives capable of driving meaningful social change in their home countries.

Looking ahead, he plans to expand “Ear to Eye” into additional cities and artistic disciplines, including film and other visual art forms. His longer-term ambition is to support not only audiences but also performers with visual impairments, creating platforms where they can lead and shape productions themselves.

The recognition marks a significant milestone in Linh’s mission to transform theatre accessibility and promote inclusive cultural experiences across Vietnam.