Deaf children missing out on Christmas pantomimes, charity says
- Published
The cast of Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru's Swyn, which uses bilingual sign language
Deaf children are being excluded from Christmas pantomimes because of a lack of accessibility, according to a charity.
The National Deaf Children's Society said there are worries children are missing out on positive experiences from live theatre.
One show hopes to counter that by using British Sign Language (BSL) and Welsh.
One if its actresses said deaf people have the same right as others to enjoy shows.
The charity said it hears too often from the parents of Wales' more than 2,300 deaf children who are frustrated at not be able to take them to live shows.
Gethin Watkins, advice and guidance officer at the charity, said: "There just aren't enough chances for deaf children to go out and enjoy themselves at things like pantomimes, especially at this time of the year.
"It's a really positive experience that a lot of people have, but something a lot miss out on because of theatre productions not having enough accessibility."
But a good example of deaf children under seven being given the chance to engage with live theatre is Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru's 2023 winter show Swyn.
Based on the book 'Whimsy' by Krystal S Lowe, it shares the story of a little girl who goes on a winter journey through nature to make new friends.
Writer and actress Krystal S Lowe says deaf children's reaction to the show is encouraging
Sarah Adedeji plays the storyteller who uses BSL throughout the bilingual show, alongside a Welsh storyteller - a first for the company.
She said: "You don't have to just bring an interpreter on the side of the stage every now and then, you can have characters that use BSL.
"I think it's really important to find different ways of integrating BSL. Shows should have BSL in every performance."
As well as writing Swyn, Krystal S Lowe also plays the title role in the 30 minute-long production.
She said the reaction from deaf children along the tour - which runs until 20 December - has been encouraging.
Children from Ysgol Gymunedol Peniel, all aged five, give Swyn the thumbs up
"It's been so incredible. One little child who wears the same implants as Sarah went up to her afterwards - she was so happy to have something in common with the cool and interesting performer on stage."
Eileen Jenkins, a class assistant at Ysgol Gymunedol Peniel in Carmarthen, took pupils from the school to watch a performance of Swyn at nearby creative centre Yr Egin.
"Several of the children at school sign, so seeing it live like that really helps them to understand," she said.
"I'm sure after going back to class we'll all be signing before the day's over."
For a list of pantomimes in Wales this year which are suitable for deaf children, click here, external.
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