How did the hearing cast and crew communicate on set with the Deaf cast and crew?
The production had two interpreters on set at all times. (On bigger days with many Deaf and Hard of Hearing extras, additional interpreters were available.) Doreen DeLuca, Brian Morrison, and Jai Wexler worked tirelessly in an extremely difficult interpreting setting; they handled the situation with grace and talent. One interpreter was always with the director, and the other worked with the rest of the crew. Ann Calamia notes, “Although I can sign, it takes many, many years of study and practice to master the language. The interpreter’s role was invaluable because it allowed me to express my deepest thoughts and ideas to my Deaf actors. The interpreters freed me to express anything I wished to share without having to be concerned if my signing capability was enough to provide complete understanding. When on set, the director has very little time to express him/herself and to keep on schedule. Excellent communication is essential. The interpreters provided this and so much more.”

Were Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals involved in the production of the film?
Yes, Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals were involved in every aspect of the film’s production.

• Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals were consulted for writing the script.
• Once the script was written, Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals were consulted regarding the accuracy of the representation of the Deaf experience.
• Robert DeMayo, a Deaf teacher and actor, transliterated the script from written English into American Sign Language.
• Robert DeMayo was the ASL consultant and coach––trained the actors, consulted with casting, worked on set, and assisted with captioning in post-production.
• All Deaf characters were played by Deaf actors.
• A Hard of Hearing woman worked in accounting.
• Deaf artist Stuart Adelman’s work is featured in the film.
• Deaf and Hard of hearing extras participated in many scenes of the film.