Based in Vancouver, VocalEye is the first dedicated live description service for blind and partially sighted people in Canada. Its mission is to provide greater access to theatre, arts and cultural events for people of all ages who are blind and partially sighted. As well as describing in-person cultural events in the Vancouver area, Vocal Eye also provides online accessible arts events via Zoom, attracting attendees from across the lower mainland and beyond.

VocalEye’s ‘Almost Live’ Zoom events will introduce you to a variety of audio plays, virtual art tours, festival highlights, music, dance, documentary film, storytelling and more with host Amy Amantea and special guest artists.

Almost Live Episode #161: THE PERFECT STORY (directed by Michelle Shephard, 2021, 73 min)

The Perfect Story is a heart-wrenching and provocative look at journalism, belonging, the stories we tell, and who gets to tell them. The film follows the decade-long relationship between Canadian journalist Michelle Shephard and Ismael Abdulle, a young Somali refugee who had his hand and foot cut off by the terrorist group al-Shabab. Their story begins in 2010, when they met during one of Michelle’s reporting trips to Mogadishu for the Toronto Star. Her articles about Ismael sparked a movement within the Somali diaspora that helped him escape Mogadishu and find refuge in Harstad, Norway, 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. For nearly a decade, Ismael embraced his new home, learning to speak Norwegian fluently and attempting to adapt to his new country. When Ismael goes back to Mogadishu, an unexpected turn of events forces Michelle to defy one of journalism’s golden rules—“report the story, don’t become part of it”—and makes her question her role as a storyteller.

The VocalEye virtual lobby opens at 6:30 pm Pacific Time for socializing. The host’s official welcome and pre-show introduction begins at 6:45 pm. The feature presentation begins at 7 pm, followed by Q and A and community conversation. Average running time is 90 minutes, not including conversation.

Almost Live online Zoom events are designed for people who are blind and partially sighted, but everyone is welcome! Check your time zone with this handy Time Zone Converter

All events are free, but registration is required for first-time attendees. You can sign up for one event or the whole season free of charge at https://www.vocaleye.ca/almost-live-zoom-registration/

For more information, phone: 604-364-5949 or email info@vocaleye.ca