Central develops courses for deaf artists in new Deafinitely and Graeae collaboration

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama has announced a new collaboration with theatre companies Deafinitely and Graeae.

They are launching a five-day intensive acting course for deaf artists, with more new courses to come from the new partnership. 

The BSL Acting Intensive Course is fully funded, with no fee to take part, and has been described as the organisers as the first of its kind to be offered at Central. It will take place from 15 to 19 July. 

‘This course - which is led, designed and curated by deaf people, and with the support of Central - is our gift in legacy, societal impact and, most importantly, great stories,’ says RCCD principal Josette Bushell-Mingo. 

‘To that end, the whole of our institution will have a process of cultural and linguistic understanding to those who will join us – with first-stage BSL classes and cultural seminars, ambassadors within the institution and more. This will be available to Central’s students and staff and embedded in our continued work in inclusion for all our communities at Central – and beyond.’

Deafinitely Theatre artistic director Paula Garfield added: ‘We look forward to continuing to create and celebrate a talent pool of deaf and BSL-using actors who will now have the opportunity to access a drama school course without barriers.’