Upcoming Classes
All of our training opportunities take place virtually using Zoom. There are generally 4 full days of formal Audio Description instruction with time in between for assignments, practice, or preparation. To be added to our mailing list for class announcements, or for any other questions, please email us at info@adtrainingretreats.com.
2026 Leadership Exchange in Arts & Disability (LEAD) Conference
August 11–14, 2026 in Philadelphia, PA
ADTR is excited to be participating in this year’s LEAD Conference, with multiple presentations and a full-day workshop:
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Audio Description for Live Performance workshop on August 11
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Presenting a session on marketing audio description (scheduling + promotion)
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Giving a lightning talk on access in performance planning beyond AD—how to make experiences more welcoming for everyone
Capacity-Building Workshop: Audio Description for Live Performance
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August 11, 9am-5pm
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Instructors: Colleen Connor, Bridget Melton, Adrienne Livingston, and Susannah Mars
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Registration fee: $250 per person
Click here for the LEAD Conference 2026 Schedule, Registration, and Details
Paid Audio Description Training Opportunity
November 21, 2026 - February 13, 2027
We are seeking passionate writers from underrepresented communities who are committed to accessibility to join our special training program this winter!
Ideal applicants are:
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familiar with Audio Description (AD), but haven't already done paid work as an AD Writer or Live Describer
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interested in pursuing writing AD for television and movies as a full- or part-time freelance career
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observant, detail-oriented, and empathetic
Preference will be given to candidates from underrepresented communities who aren't able to access other existing trainings. We especially welcome applications from Black, Indigenous, and people of color or other world majority populations, as well as those with disabilities!
Applications are due by 11:59 PM Pacific time on Monday, August 31st.
Click here for more information and to apply!
Fundamentals of Audio Description with Bridget Melton and Colleen Connor
Moderators: Susannah Mars and Adrienne Livingston
Tuition: $800 for participants, $650 for observers
Upcoming Classes:
TBD 2027
Advanced AD: Writing for the Screen with Melissa Hope and Colleen Connor
Tuition: $800
Pre-requisite: ADTR Fundamentals or equivalent training/experience
Upcoming Class:
TBD 2027
Please contact us if you would like to sponsor a training or provide a scholarship!
For further details or questions, email us at: info@adtrainingretreats.com