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Sangjaya, 30, from Melbourne, actively follows hip hop. Since childhood, Stargardt disease has caused him to experience macular degeneration and low vision, so he relies on his peripheral vision to navigate the world.

His passion for music, especially hip hop, has never waned. He regularly attends concerts and has seen big artists like Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q, A$AP Rocky, and Ja Rule live.

For Sangjaya, what should be an enjoyable night out can quickly become stressful. He encounters several common obstacles at live music events.

“Lighting can be a bit tricky; big venues are often dim. It’s hard to find my seat, and they rarely turn on the house lights when you walk in,” Sangjaya said.

“Staff can be quite unhelpful or untrained in assisting people with low vision or blindness. I've even had security doubt my disability before, which makes going to concerts quite uncomfortable,” he said.

Sangjaya also mentions the lack of accessibility at smaller venue gigs. 

“It can be tough, especially within the underground hip hop scene. Smaller venues often lack the budget for extra staff or accessibility services.”

Sangjaya believes accessibility should be integrated into the concert experience and not treated as an afterthought. He suggests several practical steps that could be implemented, which would dramatically improve the experience for people with low vision.

“Increase staff training on disability awareness and proper assistance. Also, greet patrons upon arrival and ask if they need help, ensuring they can disclose privately and comfortably.

“Venues should trust patrons who disclose disabilities, avoiding the need for proof. Turn on house lights when gates open to ensure safe seating. More accessible sensory rooms at gigs would be even better to imitate.”

For Sangjaya, music is about connection and community. It brings people together and no one should feel excluded because of a disability.

By making simple, considerate adjustments, venues and organisers can create a more inclusive atmosphere for fans of all abilities and allow the music to genuinely bring everyone together in the space.