Imagine a world of silence. A world of vibrant colors. A world of laughter and merriment. A world of the eyes and hands. A mosaic of Deaf Culture. Before the rise of technology, Deaf Clubs flourished. They were places where diverse people gathered to share one common link: their Deaf identity. They danced and socialized. They created dramatic presentations expressing their Deaf experiences. Deaf clubs were a way of celebrating Deaf culture.

Over the last few years, technological advances have allowed the Deaf to become part of mainstream society. As a result, Deaf clubs have dwindled, as Deaf pride dispersed into the larger population. Deafywood has been established to renew the spirit! Based in Hollywood, Deafywood is an ensemble of Deaf members. Founded in 1996 by John Maucere, Deafywood premiered in Los Angeles on December 28, 1996.

In the past, Deafywood’s skits included notable Deaf character imitations, like Dummy Hoy, Sue Thomas, FBEye, Christy Smith and Laurent Clerc. Hearing celebrities Cher, Mike Tyson, Michael Jackson, and David Letterman were also portrayed. Previous shows also included The Jolly Parton Show, a parody of Dolly Parton, with special guests like Johnny's Angels, a remake of Charlie's Angels, and Girl Scouts of Amercia founder, Juliette Gordon Low, a deaf woman from the 1880's. The skit Autoterp portrayed the deaf and hearing experience while being on the road, a hilarious look into the cultural differences. In between skits, funny commercials were shown on a gigantic screen. Dance numbers were a staple part of the show. Deaf Dancers performed to music by Madonna, Will Smith, Janet Jackson and Michael Jackson.

Currently, Deafywood has expanded its programming into two shows, The John “Leno” Maucere Show with special guests and Superdeafy and Friends, excellent for people of all ages. Deafywood also provides storytelling, and ASL poetry such as The Gift, told in cinematic-storytelling style by John Maucere. It's a heart-touching story about a deaf boy growing up in a hearing family. FOR MORE INFORMATION & VIDEOS, SEE SHOWS BELOW.

Deafywood's purpose is to find the common threads among the Deaf by presenting issues that reflect the Deaf way of life. Our shows evoke familiar emotions, creating a sense of comradery much appreciated in today's Deaf community. It's a celebration of Deaf culture!

WHAT DEAFYWOOD OFFERS.

1. Approximately 90 min.of quality entertainment.
2. The opportunity to advertise your show on our website at http://www.deafywood.com
3. Acting, Storytelling, and Deaf Culture workshops.
4. Shows for Children of all ages, anywhere!

FEES: We have different rates for schools, colleges, profit and non-profit organizations and conventions. We do provide a discount rate if your group can arrange a second performance done at the same performance site such as one matinee show and an evening show. Your group can arrange a third show the following day at the same performance site or a nearby location. We consider a nearby location to be no more than fifty miles from the first performance site. Having several organizations to co-sponsor our show(s) will reduce your costs.

DEAFYWOOD STAFF
John Maucere - Artistic Director; Lauren Maucere - Production Manager;