The Underground to Host Second Annual ASL-Friendly Live Music Event at Free Play Bar & Arcade
WORCESTER, MA, MAY 26, 2026 – Local cover band The Underground will hold its second annual ASL-friendly live music event on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Free Play Bar & Arcade in Worcester, MA from 8:30 p.m. until midnight. The special event will feature at six (6) American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters sharing the stage throughout the evening to make the concert accessible for deaf and hard of hearing attendees.
The Underground created the event to help bring greater accessibility and inclusion to the local live music scene — something the band says is often overlooked outside of major touring concerts and arena shows.
“Major national, touring bands will have ASL interpreters available at concert venues like Fenway Park or the TD Garden,” said Underground guitarist Eric Robichaud, “but deaf and hard of hearing people are pretty much ignored in the local music scene around the country. We wanted to do something about that.”
Last year, the band coordinated with seven local ASL interpreters to create a fully accessible and high energy live music experience. Interpreters visually represented every song performed throughout the night, while the venue featured ample subwoofers so attendees could physically feel the music and rhythm.
The Underground performs a wide-ranging mix of upbeat, danceable rock and pop hits spanning the 1960s through today, including classic rock favorites, 1990s hits, and contemporary songs designed to keep audiences dancing all night long.
Last year, the inaugural ASL-friendly event exceeded expectations and drew a packed crowd.
“The venue was packed and the buzz was through the roof,” Robichaud said. “It was so cool seeing everyone dancing and having fun!”
This year’s event is expected to draw an even larger audience and will feature additional, fun surprises throughout the evening!
The event is open to the public (21+). Fans of live music, accessibility advocacy, and inclusive community events are encouraged to attend.
Event Details:
The Underground – Second Annual ASL-Friendly Concert
Friday, June 19, 2026
8:30 p.m. – Midnight
Free Play Bar & Arcade
Worcester, Massachusetts
Flyer by The Underground.