“The musical production Savior of the World, based on scriptural accounts of the birth and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, … features a cast of talented actors, singers, and musicians sharing testimony through drama and song of the divine mission of Jesus Christ, the Son of God and Savior of the world.
“There is a special performance for those who are deaf and blind (and their families and friends) on December 17, 2008, at 7:30 p.m., with theatrical translation (ASL), closed captions, ADA assistive listening, and descriptive narration provided. Translation is available for those who are both deaf and blind.” http://www.lds.org/events/info/0,8197,726-1-672,00.html
As Steve and I wait in line for the theater doors to open, we greet and sign with several friends from the Deaf ward. There is a large chart displayed showing the seating arrangements that will best accommodate the people. The ASL section is in the middle and on either side are closed captioned monitors. Space is reserved for those in wheel chairs.
The performance is scheduled to begin at 7:30 and we are scheduled to enter the theater at 6:30. At around 7:00 p.m., the doors open and the people find their way into the theater. There is no reserved seating, so everyone scrambles to get the best seats. As is the custom when the Deaf Community gathers together, many energetic people communicate with each other across the room in signs and happy faces. I wish I signed well enough to communicate that way. This open and friendly way of communicating is one of the things I love most about Deaf Culture.
Steve and I find seats in front of a closed caption monitor where we can see everything. In front of the stage is a platform for the ASL interpreters. They are dressed in black clothing. As the spotlight shines on them, you have a clear view of their hands and faces.
It takes time to get everyone seated and comfortable. At about 8:00 p.m. the lights dim and the performance begins. Years ago, I would have been focused on the beautiful music and the spoken dialogue. Tonight my eyes are focused on the beautiful ASL interpreters. I am especially touched by one woman who signs the music with expression and emotion.
I notice in a corner almost directly in front of Steve and I, a man who is deaf and blind. He has three interpreters who switch about every ten minutes. They communicate by fingerspelling into his hands and guiding his hands on their faces. I do not want to stare, but I cannot help but notice with wonderment and awe at this scene before me. It’s not just the thought that I would never be able to have this skill that intrigues me. It’s the way he and his interpreters appear to be so in tune with each other and with the Spirit. His countenance shines as he is clearly understanding and enjoying the performance. I imagine angels surrounding them.
There is a ten minute “stand up” intermission where Steve gets a chance to tease our friends (“Where is the popcorn?”). One of the ASL interpreters is talking to his friend and overhear him say that they have a special surprise at the end of the performance. I think I know what it is, but he does not say.
The second half of the performance is where the actor who plays the Savior comes out onto the stage. I get teary eyed. Just before the last song is sung, all of the actors come out onto the stage. I am sure this is the surprise about to begin. They all sing and sign the hymn “Jesus, Once of Humble Birth.” They end the performance by singing and signing the words, “Come, Lord Jesus, Come”. All of their hands are reaching up in a prayerful gesture. I lose it and the tears flow freely. I am certain the theater is filled with angels.
As we drive home, Steve says, “This was a great night. We should do this every Christmas.” I agree.
Filed under: Deaf in a Hearing Church
