A Lifetime of Deaf and Deafblind 2

Presented over two weekends, A Lifetime of Deaf and Deafblind 2 is the story of deaf and deaf blind experience told through story and song. It is produced, directed and compared by Peter Blockey, who was born deaf into a hearing family in regional WA, and he is the writer of the songs that form much of the show.

Performing to a mixed hearing and deaf audience, hearing people will notice diminished audible applause at the end of songs and scenes, as many people adopt “deaf applause - which looks a bit like jazz hands” adding foot stamping for the deafblind performer.

Songs include “Echoes of the Invisible”, “Silent Horizons”, “Didn’t You Know”, “Ride the Storm”, “We Can Share” and perhaps the most dynamic, “Pah” an expression of breaking free. 

A short dramatic presentation merges the experiences of performers Princess Nidera, a deaf woman originally from the Philippines who had to learn the new language of Auslan when she moved to Australia, and Eddie Szczepanik, a deaf man who has become deaf blind due to Retinitis Pigmentosa. Both are captivating performers

A cast of hearing actors, I believe Auslan students and interpreters, play supporting roles, sometimes leading signing or interpreting songs. Great work from Sarah Green, Georgie Whyatt, Zac Blundell and Artorious Emmanuel. An Auslan interpreter works hard throughout translating for the audience in both directions.

This is a little bit different and a glimpse into deaf and deaf blind culture. Well worth seeing especially if you are looking for something educational or uplifting in your Fringe viewing.

Kimberley Shaw

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