The National Theatre of the Deaf is proud to present the acclaimed Little Theatre of the Deaf in a new production of Stories In My Pocket which will commence a national tour this spring. The performance will include an innovative participatory audience warm-up with ASL (American Sign Language) by members of the LTD Company followed by the performance of Stories In My Pocket.
Stories In My Pocket draws on the large repertory of stories, fables, poems and riddles The Little Theatre of the Deaf have pocketed over their 40-plus year history in producing quality theatre for young people. Many of the company's favorites will be popped into large pockets on the stage. The actors will teach the audience the sign for each of the colors so when students are selected from the audience they will be able to sign the color they choose to be performed.
Keep a story in your pocket
And a picture in your head
And you'll never feel lonely
At night when you're in bed
Some of the stories that may be chosen include, Rich Man, Poor Man, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, The Little Red Hen and the Butterfly Jar. Also part of the program is "Signing Fun" and "Sign a Song" which is highly entertaining and instructional. Stories In My Pocket has an original script created and directed by Betty Beekman, NTD Tour Director with additional direction by Aaron M. Kubey, NTD Executive Director.
The Little Theatre of the Deaf, comprised of Deaf and Hearing Actors, performs the entire program completely in American Sign Language and the spoken word. The Little Theatre of the Deaf entertains as it educates, the audience SEES and HEARS every word.
The Little Theatre of the Deaf program provides teachers with their Learn and Study Together Guide containing material about the performance, exercises and activities to do in the classroom pre and post performance, even including sign language lessons. Working hand in hand with curriculum, the performance and guide provide experiences and exercises to further the education of curriculum disciplines, social values of diversity, culture awareness, social studies, and more! Additionally, students will be exposed to a less-known culture in the United States.
The Little Theatre of the Deaf is the children's wing of the National Theatre of the Deaf. Each year, LTD gives live performances to thousands of children and adults around the world. Recently, they were invited by The American Institute in Taiwan to perform at the International Deaflympics to rave reviews. Additionally, LTD has performed in India, Mexico, Germany, Japan, China, Russia, and New Zealand.
