Art Imitates Life

Anger and mistrust between the hearing world and the deaf world is displayed in the play "The Hostage." The Head Theatre in Baltimore, MD at Center Stage is running this production from February 18, through April 2. It's interpretation is staged by Center Stage Artistic Director Irene Lewis.

Ms. Lewis utilizes sign language to convey her thoughts. The entire cast signs directly to the audience at the most dramatic moments. The plot of this satirical play is the struggle between the Irish and the English, yet with her interpretation it brings up interesting issues.

I have experienced both worlds. While in the hearing world, I never gave the non-hearing a second thought. I know this sounds callous, but to be fair, my life experiences never gave me a clue just how discriminating I was acting.

As I try to adjust to the new life, I've been forced into, through no fault of my own, I have been humbled. I see things quite differently now. Since my 30's, when this change began, in retrospect, I see my disability became an obstacle, as long as I allowed it to happen that way.

Any anger or mistrust I felt came from deep within me. When I lingered on what I could no longer enjoy, I than became an easy target.

The circumstances weren't going to change so I had to carry on with my life. I dwelled on the love I've always had for the arts.

I enjoy watching the annual ceremony for the Academy Awards. I remember my first viewing the year we moved to California. The Media has turned it into a huge fashion show rather than an awards show. Yet I enjoy the excitement of the wonderful dedicated performers accepting their well deserved statues.

Going back to the play, "The Hostage" it has quite an impressive cast. Will Conley, is in his first year residency at Center Stage. He's perfromed with the National Theatre of The Deaf, Will is the Associate Director of "The Hostage."

Warren Snipes has danced and choreographed with Galludet Dance Theatre, National Deaf Theatre, and Dupont and Alley Dance Company. He's performed at the Kennedy Center and The White House. In my opinion he's a talented and distinguished part of the theatre.

I have looked to the arts for inspiration, behind all the lights and stage make-up you know there are many dedicated people. They can put a smile on your face, or a tear in your eye, in a heartbeat.

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