Deaf & Hard of Hearing Day at New Jersey Renaissance Faire

Hear ye! Hear ye! The New Jersey Renaissance Faire, in its 17th season of glory, is bringing back its fantastic community outreach day: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Day on May 30th!

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Day at the New Jersey Renaissance Faire is a favorite day amongst deaf community members. Organizer Steve Rogina, from Pennsauken, NJ, has been spearheading this unique experience for the Deaf community for several years. Professional interpreter Emy Brown of Atco, NJ explains: “This is a great opportunity for the community to come together and interact with
one another rather than being isolated in their own experiences.”

Interpreters from across South Jersey volunteer to work at the long-standing event, interpreting intricate shows and informal interactions. “We have practicum students joining us who have never interpreted Shakespeare or improvised theatrical interactions. It’s an eye-opening adventure for many of us, but it’s so important,” says Steve Rogina, who has over twenty years of theatrical interpreting experience and helps Brown design specific signs for cast members before the full group comes together. Favorite name signs from the past include the Duke and Duchess Percy and fan favorite Lady Viola.