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Finally, I want to share personal news because many of you have seen my parents through the years at Headlong shows. Because of them Headlong provided ASL interpreters at our events from the very beginning; or maybe you saw me interpreting for them and other Deaf friends and family who would come to our shows. My mother was at the heart of a duet we made together called Island of Signs, and Headlong’s long, elaborate river project called The Quiet Circus. In addition to seeing her, one might see my dad walking their dogs as he came out to our weekly performances at the Washington Avenue Pier.
In the spring my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and passed away within a few months of getting his diagnosis. I am grateful we were able to care for him in our home, along with my mom during those tender months, and that now, we are able to have my amazing mother live with us. My dad was an extraordinary person who had an incredible life, breaking barriers for Deaf people and playing a huge role in the advancement of Deaf people through his advocacy and activism. As for my ability to be an artist and follow the risky, unconventional path that has meant, his unconditional love for me as I am and as I choose to be has meant everything. In this way, he made my art possible. If you would like to read the eulogy I wrote for his memorial service at the Pennsylvania School for the Deaf where he worked for many years you can click here.
Big love and thank you from me, David, and from Norma and Alex
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