[Source: Matt Antonino/Shutterstock]
North Texas Performing Arts (NTPA) has launched the NTPA Deaf Theater, the first in North Texas and the first in the nation. Deaf Theater has appointed Daymond Sands as its new program director.
Sands will produce Deaf Theater's first major production, “It's a Wonderful Life,'' which opens in November. He is currently directing a cast of 22 actors in the film adaptation of the classic story, according to a news release.
Award-winning arts educator and mentor
daymond sands [Photo: NTPA]
Sands, a Dallas native who first appeared on stage at age 5, recently received the Plano Arts Center's Arts Educator Award for his work as a deaf actor, sign language singer, director and teacher. Sands has been working in theaters since 2016 as a professional performer and his ASL consultant.
“I am grateful for this recognition as an arts educator and look forward to propelling this program to even greater heights,” Sands said in a statement. “We are grateful to NTPA for creating Deaf Theater and bringing this opportunity to deaf people across North Texas.”
NTPA “Accessible Theater” Program
NTPA Deaf Theater is part of NTPA's Accessible Theater program. The organization said it aims to promote equal access to theater for young people who are deaf and hard of hearing, while encouraging diversity and inclusion.
In addition, all NTPA Deaf Theater Board members must be members of the Deaf community, either by being Deaf themselves or by being the parent of a Deaf child.
NTPA CEO Darrell Rodenbaugh said, “We are excited about Mr. Daymond's leadership as we expand the impact of this program.” “This is based on our vision that every child should have the opportunity to be on stage.”
The nonprofit NTPA is dedicated to developing character in youth through performing arts education and family entertainment. Founded 30 years ago as Plano Children's Theatre, NTPA has grown to become the largest youth theater organization in the country, the nonprofit says.
Headquartered at Willow Bend Arts Center in Plano, NTPA currently has spaces in Fairview, Frisco, and Dallas.
Each year, NTPA provides opportunities to more than 11,000 students ages 3 to 18 through its “Ten Character” leadership development program. NTPA's professional arts staff harnesses the power of theater, dance, music, sound, film, and television to inspire young people's passion for the performing arts while helping them become better citizens.
“It's a Wonderful Life” will be performed from Nov. 17 to 19 at the Egelston Acres Black Box Theater at Willowbend Arts Center in Plano. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 starting November 13th.
For tickets and more information, click here.
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