february 2024
Shake It Up!
For Off the Grid Missions
Sunday, March 24, 2024 | Captain Quackenbush’s Cafe
Join Deaf Austin Theatre (DAT) on a powerful, meaningful journey of supporting another Deaf organization at an upcoming fundraising event in Austin. Off-The-Missions (OTG) is a global humanitarian aid organization filling the gap in disaster-response by providing Deaf and HOH people with critical life-saving resources in high-risk and disaster-stricken regions across the world – the only Deaf organization in the world. In dedication to this noble cause, DAT will be hosting this exceptional show, with a talented group of artists, who will bring an insight of humanity, joy, and inspiration through poetry, songs, essays, and most importantly, awareness. This show is not to be missed!
Directed by Russell Harvard
MAy 2024
Tiny Beautiful Things
By Nia Vardalos, Cheryl Strayed
May 10-26, 2024 | Sterling Stage Austin, 6134 E Hwy 290, Austin, TX 78752
Based on the bestselling book by Cheryl Strayed and adapted for the stage by Nia Vardalos, Tiny Beautiful Things personifies the questions and answers that “Sugar” was publishing online from 2010-2012. When the struggling writer was asked to take over the unpaid, anonymous position of advice columnist, Strayed used empathy and her personal experiences to help those seeking guidance for obstacles both large and small.
Tiny Beautiful Things is a play about reaching when you’re stuck, healing when you’re broken, and finding the courage to take on the questions that have no answers.
Warnings: Please be advised that “Tiny Beautiful Things” has strong language and discusses the themes of depression, drug abuse, sexual assault and physical abuse. The play is recommended for adults.
Directed by Brian Cheslik
may/june 2024
Chronicles of a Black DeafBlind Girl
Written and performed by Ashlea Hayes
May 30 – June 2, 2024 | Sterling Stage Austin, 6134 E Hwy 290, Austin, TX 78752
Ghari is a 30-something year old woman whose life has just begun. Everything is new. She’s moved to a new city, learned a new language, started a new career, and is newly single. Join Ghari as she navigates her “new normal” and tackles the dating world…while DeafBlind…and Black.
On-Demand Streaming until June 9th at 11:59pm
Directed by Brian Cheslik
Choregraphy by Joey Antonio
july/august 2024
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella
In collaboration with Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma
In association with ZACH Theatre
July 30-August 4th | Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma
The enchanting, Tony-nominated musical fairytale that places a spell on audiences of all ages. In an innovative approach with Deaf Austin Theatre and performed simultaneously and seamlessly in English and American Sign Language, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA showcases your favorite tunes, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” in this funny, modern adaptation from the delightful Broadway revival. Add a dash of romance, a splash of stage magic –and POOF! – you’re guaranteed to have a ball!
Directed by Brian Cheslik & Michael Baron
This event is in person only.
Friday, october 18, 2024
BAT BALL
Bat Ball: A Fundraising Gala for Deaf Austin Theatre
Date: Friday, October 18th
Time: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: The Cathedral, 2403 E 16th St, Austin, TX 78702
Join us for an unforgettable evening at Bat Ball, the premier fundraising gala in support of Deaf Austin Theatre’s upcoming 2025 production season. Set against the stunning backdrop of The Cathedral in East Austin, this event promises to be a celebration of artistry, community, and support for an incredible cause.
The evening kicks off with an exclusive VIP reception at 5:00 PM, featuring delectable appetizers and an early preview of our exciting 2025 lineup of shows. General admission begins at 6:00 PM, where guests can continue to enjoy a night filled with delicious bites, lively music by DJ Nico DiMarco, and the chance to bid on unique items in our silent auction.
This gala is not just an event; it’s an opportunity to be part of a vibrant theatre community through the transformative power of Deaf Theatre. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to Deaf Austin Theatre, your presence and contributions will play a vital role in bringing our future productions to life.
Tickets:
VIP Admission: $200 (5:00 PM start)
General Admission: $150 (6:00 PM start)
Don’t miss your chance to make a difference and celebrate with us at Bat Ball. Secure your tickets today and be a part of something extraordinary!
November 2024
DAT Short Play Festival
Theme: An Alley
Friday November 8th-16th | Virtual through Stellar
Join us as we showcase Deaf playwrights and original new works. During the DAT Short Play festival, we will premiere five new short plays written by Deaf playwrights, all taking place in an alleyway.
DAYS BETWEEN US
Written by Heba Toulan
Directed by Andres Flash Otalora
THE DEAF TABLE
Written by Garrett Zuercher
Directed by Dr. Brian Cheslik
WANDS HAVE MORE FUN
Written by Allison Fradkin
Directed by Erin Rosenfeld
December 2024
The Eight: Reindeer Monologues
By Jeff Goode
December 21-28, 2024 | Stellar Online Streaming
A dark, dark Christmas comedy. Scandal erupts at the North Pole when one of Santa’s eight tiny reindeer accuses him of sexual harassment. As mass media descends upon the event, the other members of the sleigh team demand to share their perspectives, and a horrific tale of corruption and perversion emerges, which seems to implicate everyone from the littlest elf to the tainted Saint himself. With each deer’s confession, the truth behind the shocking allegations becomes clearer and clearer. …and murkier and murkier.
Warning: This show deals with adult themes, including sexual assault and child molestation, and is not recommended for those under age 16.
Directed by Brian Cheslik
Starring the Deaf Austin Theatre Board of Directors:
Russell Harvard, Sandra Mae Frank, Brian Cheslik, Heba Toulan, Yan Liu, Tk Sylvester, Jo Rose Benfield, Bellamie Bachleda