Reflections Through a DeafLens

Greeting Colleagues,

Confronting us at this time, is an issue that has recurred increasingly over the years, one that has consistently ignored "voices" from Deaf people who make their living in theatre, film and television. This particular issue is a bone of contention that has a direct impact on opportunities for Deaf professional  actors, producers, directors, writers, and design technicians. It also has a direct impact on the image of Deaf people and how "Hollywood"  defines us.

It is well known that opportunities for work on stage, film and television are few and far between and more so for Deaf people who are professionals and members of Equity, AFTRA and SAG. In a recent issue of The New York Times, there was a write up of a New York Theatre Workshop's rehearsal production of The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter. The lead actor, Henry Stram (hearing) plays John Singer, a deaf and mute character. The play by Rebecca Gilman is based on Carson McCullers's 1940 novel of the same name. It is important for us to understand how this article came about.

Upon learning of NYTW's production, "Deaf Hollywood" and New York City Deaf members of Equity, AFTRA and SAG immediately contacted each other through the Internet and in a matter of days, a shared distribution list was formed and discussion immediately ensued. One direct result of this discussion was this New York Times article. Be sure to read the comments, there are 75 of them. Other postings include The Clyde Fitch Report and The Huffington Post.

A thought occurred to me. I'm wondering if any part or phase of the development of The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter production was funded by city, county, state or federal government? Were rehearsals or meetings held in any facility supported in full or partially by public funds? Was Doug Hughes' Acting Company funded in any way with public funds? Did anyone affiliated with the development of the play and production receive support in any shape or form from public funds? Deaf people are taxpayers.

We are fortunate to have a strong core group of Deaf people and allies led by Linda Bove and Howie Seago. Both represent years of experience in theatre, film and television. In the core group are Lewis Merkin, DJ Kurs, Alexandria Wailes, Guthrie Nutter, Anne Tomasetti, Darren Fudenske, Sharon Jensen and Sindy Gordon.

We stand solidly behind them. We respect and support their handling of this issue. They know what is at stake. They have the expertise and the experience to address this issue.

Jane