Landon Krentz and re:Naissance Opera will showcase “Jesse: An ASL Opera” in a workshop on Monday, June 24, 2019 in Vancouver, BC as part of the Queer Arts Festival.

The opera is being created by Deaf playwright and performer Landon Krentz with the intention of challenging social and artistic practices by “integrating sign language into the DNA of the opera.” It will tell the story of a “man’s journey of self-discovery as he navigates Deaf culture, queerness and the rhythms of being human.”

Krentz will play the role of Jesse alongside Heather Molloy, who will also provide English dramaturgy on the piece.

“I am from two different worlds. One is Deaf and one is hearing.  My challenge doing this type of work is to think about how to combine both worlds in one space,” Landon Krentz, Artistic Director & Creator, in a press release.

The work will feature music by Paula Weber with ASL Dramaturgy by Joanne Weber. Anita Harding will serve as Deaf Consultant.