Every family is unique in its own distinct way. Family is one of the most important parts of one’s life and is instrumental in shaping the way one acts within and views society. For me, my own perceptions and awareness have been shaped in part by one of my uncles who is deaf. As I get older, I become more and more aware of the lack of representation of deaf/hard of hearing actors in all forms of entertainment and have therefore been paying much more attention to the issue.
There has been extensive talk recently surrounding diversity in Hollywood, particularly with the release of this year’s Academy Award nominees (especially the four acting categories, in which every nominated actor is white). While ethnic diversity is crucial in entertainment today, other forms of diversity are just as important, but are often overlooked. There are very few deaf actors in mainstream entertainment (for example, television and film). These people have the same dreams and talents as the hearing actors we all know and love, but they get significantly less attention and recognition for their work. In 2015, however, that all changed with the revival of "Spring Awakening" on Broadway, which came from an off-Broadway run with LA's Deaf West Theatre.
I was fortunate to get to see the "Spring Awakening" revival over this past winter break, about two weeks before the show closed for good. I was not really sure what to expect; I knew that there were both hearing and deaf actors in the cast, but I had no idea how they would all be incorporated into the show. I also knew little about the show itself, having been a little too young for it when it first premiered on Broadway 10 years ago. I was pleasantly surprised when the show started and spent the rest of the show in absolute awe.
It was truly one of the most spectacular theater performances I have ever witnessed. I have been lucky to see many Broadway shows, but few have stayed with me the way this one has. It went beyond the plot and the incredible music and truly rested in the extraordinary actors and the stunning visuals that came from signing the entire show. In the words of director Michael Arden: “[We hope] that this reimagining will kindle a new connection between the hearing and deaf communities.”
More important than how I felt watching the show, though, was how others around me were reacting to the show. There were three deaf women sitting in front of me, and they were just raptured by the show. Their applause and smiles showed me just how important it is to have shows like this—shows that are accessible to everyone. Watching their enjoyment was almost as thrilling as the show itself. I could not help thinking about how I take for granted the fact that I can just see and enjoy all of these performances. I thought about my uncle, the women sitting in front of me, and all deaf and hard of hearing people, and I just felt so happy that they had the opportunity to experience such a wonderful show. Hopefully, this starts some discussions and opens doors for more productions including deaf and hard of hearing actors.
One deaf actor who has been making waves for many years is the incomparable Marlee Matlin. Arguably the most well-known deaf actor, Matlin made her Broadway debut in September 2015 in "Spring Awakening." Though she had finished her run in the show by the time I saw it, I am beyond excited to meet her next week when she comes and speaks—or rather signs—at Cornell, courtesy of Cornell Hillel. Academy Award winner, published author, famous television actress from shows such as
"The West Wing" and "Switched at Birth," mother, activist, and so much more, Matlin is an inspiration and pioneer and has been instrumental in breaking down the stigma surrounding deaf actors.
In Ithaca next week? Come see Marlee Matlin at Cornell University on Monday, February 8 at 5:30 p.m. in Olin Hall 155!
