Comedian Chris McCausland, who is blind, travels the globe to explore some of the world’s most iconic, unforgettable world landmarks, but in a new and unique way that discovers things the ordinary traveller might miss.
Wonders of the World I Can’t See airs Fridays, January 26 through February 16 at 3 p.m. on WXXI-TV.
In each episode, reluctant traveller Chris will be joined by a different special celebrity guest as his travelling companion. As well as providing a humorous ‘audio description’ of their surroundings for him, the celebrity companions will do their best to prove to Chris that there’s much more to visiting these places than just what they look like, by engaging their other senses. Will they manage to convince him that it was worth getting off his couch after all?
Episode 1 (Airs 1/26): In Athens, Chris and comedy legend Harry Hill try their hand at Olympic sports and pottery. And can Harry do the Acropolis justice when he describes it to Chris?
Episode 2 (Airs 2/2): In Rome, Chris and Tom Allen train as gladiators and make pasta. And can Tom convey the majesty of the Colosseum to Chris?
Episode 3 (Airs 2/9) : Chris and Guz Khan visit the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, where floating, haggling, camel riding and some unique descriptions from Guz await.
Episode 4 (Airs 2/16): In Canada, Liza Tarbuck and Chris experience Niagara Falls. Chris is especially excited about experiencing a wonder that actually makes a noise.
This four-part series is presented as part of Dialogue on Disability, a partnership between WXXI and Al Sigl Community of Agencies – in conjunction with the Herman and Margaret Schwartz Community Series. Dialogue on Disability is supported by the Fred L. Emerson Foundation with additional support from The Golisano Foundation. The weeklong initiative runs January 22 through January 28, 2024.
WXXI and Al Sigl have been hosting Dialogue on Disability since 2005. In 2014, with the support of businessman and philanthropist Tom Golisano and the Golisano Foundation, Move to Include™ was formed. This initiative enables WXXI to present and develop programming that promotes inclusion year round.
Photo: Chris with comedian Tom Allen • Credit: BBC