The Global Media Site for Entertainment.
Menu
Disney have released an ASL version of the Encanto song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” in celebration of the International Day of Sign Languages earlier this month. The song, with lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, has been a hit since the release of the animated film, and has been created to boost inclusion amongst the Deaf community.
Featuring an all-Deaf Colombian and Hispanic cast, this signed video adaptation of the song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” utilizes both American Sign Language (ASL) and Colombian Sign Language (CSL) to add additional layers of authenticity and poetry to the song. The sung English lyrics were translated into ASL and CSL by a team of Sign Language Choreographers who worked through the text to find the best and most accurate translation into sign and once complete it comes together to bring forth the spirit of the Madrigal family.
The team behind the video collaboration with Disney are the innovative Deaf West Theatre. The company’s Artistic Director DJ Kurs explained the importance of the project, speaking to Variety:
“The impact this film has on children cannot be dismissed. The majority of Deaf children are born to hearing families and sometimes the only exposure to the community and sign language is through videos like this. By working with Disney Music Group on expanding the access to one of their songs to the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities brings us immense pride.”
Nataly Barahona – Pepa
Andres (Flash) Otalora – Felix
Donna Valverde – Mirabel and Abuela
Jasmine Garcia – Isabela
Joseph Rocha – Camilo
Andrea Rodriguez – Dolores
Video Creative Team:
Nataly Barahona and Donna Valverde, ASL Choreographers
Andres (Flash) Otalora, Director of Photography
Austin Balaich, Editor
Deaf West have previously worked with American Sign Language interpretations, and recently created a version of the Encanto song “Surface Pressure” earlier in the summer. The song was created in collaboration with Disney Music and performed by Colombian Deaf actress Nataly Barahona! Captured by Andrés Otalora and ASL Choreography by Leila Hanaumi. In celebration of Disability Pride Month.
Committed to innovation, collaboration, training and social change, Deaf West serves as the artistic bridge between the Deaf and hearing worlds. Founded in Los Angeles in 1991, Deaf West engages artists and audiences in unparalleled theater and media experiences inspired by Deaf culture and the expressive power of sign language and spoken English to create a seamless ballet of movement and voice.
We are known for our uncompromising quality and unmatched track record. On Broadway and beyond, we are at the forefront of Deaf-centered storytelling.
We are the rare intersection where Deaf and hearing artists come together, creating a unique space where connection transcends language.
We are a multi award-winning organization and we always strive to pass this success onto the individual artists and collaborators that enrich our spaces.
We were built from the ground up more than thirty years ago with accessibility at the forefront.
We create jobs and launch careers for Deaf performers, creatives, and administrators.
We are rich with both Deaf and hearing talent, and bring the resources necessary to create collaborative climates leading to truly inclusive and innovative art.
We’re committed to radical change and creating equity for all in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Accessibility At The Smith Center Series: Part One
James “Fitz” FitzSimmons Interview: The Boys In The Band On Netflix
Michelle is a musician and composer from the UK. She has performed across the UK and Europe and is passionate about arts education and opportunities for women and girls.
Read Full Profile
© 2021 TheatreArtLife. All rights reserved.
Thank you so much for reading, but you have now reached your free article limit for this month.
Our contributors are currently writing more articles for you to enjoy.
To keep reading, all you have to do is become a subscriber and then you can read unlimited articles anytime.
Your investment will help us continue to ignite connections across the globe in live entertainment and build this community for industry professionals.
