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In a world where stories come to life through graceful hand movements, expressive faces, and American Sign Language, a diverse community of ASL storytellers captivates audiences with unique expressions. Meet six great ASL Storytellers here.
Storytelling is one of the oldest art forms. According to Reporter Magazine, the act of telling a story began with cave drawings and other visual mediums and then branched out into oral traditions. Today, we tell stories in many different ways. We tell them through writing, filmmaking, painting, speaking, singing, and even using American Sign Language.
In an article on storytelling in ASL, handspeak.com states that signed storytelling is a tradition that has existed for many years. Because of the cinematic nature of sign language, an ASL storyteller can provide an imaginative narrative using space, expressions, and movement. ASL storytelling also offers several benefits. It can help with language development, improve listening and verbal communication skills, help to develop thinking and problem-solving skills, stimulate imagination and creativity, lead to relaxation and bonding, and more.
When it comes to ASL, there have been many exceptional storytellers throughout history. As a way to celebrate storytelling through sign language, we decided to put together a list of some great ASL storytellers to check out.
Six ASL Storytellers to Celebrate:
Tanya Wyatt-Dennis
Tanya Wyatt-Dennis is a pioneer in the ASL community. According to startasl.com she was the “first black Deaf hospice medical social worker.” She achieved a Master of Social Work degree from Wayne State University and became the first black Deaf school social worker for Detroit Public Schools. Learn more about Tanya here.
Kathleen Brockway
As a Deaf author, Kathleen Brockway gives presentations on preserving Deaf culture and history. She also plays an important role in the NAD Deaf Culture & History Section. Learn more about Kathleen here.
Adrean Clark
Adrean Clark is a graduate of Gallaudet University and a Deaf cartoonist and designer. In 2001, she collaborated with her Deaf-Blind husband, John Lee Clark, to create The Tactile Mind Press, where she currently serves as Creative Director. Learn more about Adrean here.
Trix Bruce
Trix Bruce is a Deaf poet and actress whose work draws on her life experiences. She has taught many workshops on ASL storytelling and has been performing since 1970. She has even performed at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. Learn more about Trix and check out her videos here.
Daniel Durant
Daniel Durant is a young Deaf actor who has found great success in recent years. He has worked on Broadway as Moritz in “Spring Awakening,” and he is passionate about connecting with others through ASL videos on YouTube. Learn more about Daniel here.
Linda Bove
Linda Bove is a Deaf actress known as a recurring character on Sesame Street. She graduated from Gallaudet University and has been involved with the National Theatre of the Deaf. On Sesame Street, Linda played a librarian with the same name. She is the only non-hearing performer to have been on the series. Learn more about Linda here.
Every culture has its own great storytellers, and the ASL community is no exception. The list above is a great starting point if you’re interested in checking out some of the best storytellers ASL has to offer.
I hope you enjoyed learning about these ASL Storytellers!
Kathleen
