ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the formal side of audio description (AD), namely the legislation that governs it and its development in different countries. It contrasts two forms: AD for screen and AD for live events. The chapter stresses that blind or partially sighted (BPS) people have often been instrumental in fostering the development of AD. Although legislation has also been crucial, the practice is unregulated in many contexts, leaving the specifics open to evolution and debate. This has been to the advantage of live AD, allowing it to be more creative and adventurous. The chapter outlines the development of AD, expanding from its earliest origins in UK to its recent emergence in China and elsewhere. It describes the important role played by pioneers in America such as the Pfanstiehl and Gregory Frazier. The chapter focuses on differences in the process of AD for screen and for live events. The situation is fluid, owing to new ways of accessing audiovisual (AV) media.
