Curtain rises for deaf youngsters in Yorkshire
Over the next fortnight, young deaf people are taking part in a two-week summer school at the York Theatre Royal.
The event, which runs from August 7 to 19, is organised by the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) and is open to deaf people aged 13 to 19. Deaf and hearing participants will have the chance to improvise and create a new play, perform on stage, train as a technician backstage, and design props, costumes and sets with communication support from British Sign Language interpreters and communication support assistants.
All participants will work towards a final performance on Saturday, August 19, at the York Theatre Royal. Tickets are available from the theatre box office.
NDCS Events Manager Lisa Warner explains: "Deafness makes it harder for children to communicate, which can be very isolating. Many deaf young people also find it difficult to participate in out-of-school activities because they are not set up to provide good communication.
"The deaf and hearing summer school is led by professional artistic directors and theatre designers, experienced at working with young deaf people who can help them discover new skills. We're pleased to offer this residential week to young deaf people as it will give them the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new friends and increase their self-confidence."
The NDCS is the only UK charity solely dedicated to the support of deaf children and young people, their families, and professionals working with them. For more information on NDCS youth events, e-mail events@ndcs.org.uk or call the NDCS events team on 0121 234 9820 (voice and text).
