[Image Description: Text reads “GCTC seeking Applications: ASL Interpreter Training Program for the Performing Arts.” Background image from the production The First Stone (2023). Three performers are onstage wearing a mix of African wax printed fabric, cotton t-shirts, and jean shorts. Behind them, a Deaf performer dressed in white is projected on a larger screen as they use ASL.]
ASL Interpreter Training Program for the Performing Arts
The Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC) is seeking ASL and Deaf interpreters who are interested in joining a free and supported professional development training program to learn and grow their skills for interpretation for the stage. Interpreters will have the mentorship of two leading ASL interpreters, Carmelle Cachero and Elizabeth Morris, to grow their skills in interpretation for performance.
Interpreters selected for this program will observe and shadow the mentors during two GCTC productions. During a third production, mentees will interpret a section of the show in front of a live audience and receive feedback from Deaf audience members. There are many opportunities to learn and grow their skills as interpreters from both ASL leaders in the National Capital Region and a culturally informed Deaf perspective.
Applications are due September 2nd 11:59 PM EST.
More about the program:
Two Deaf interpreters and two ASL interpreters will be selected for this program for a total of 4 participants. Participants will be given an honorarium of $500 for their participation in the program, and complimentary tickets to the ASL performances. As well, participants will have this professional development training opportunity available to them at no cost and will get to learn from industry leaders. Participants must cover their own transportation to and from the theatre. If participants would like to apply for additional funding, GCTC will support them in their application.
The program follows three professional performances at the GCTC:
Phase 1: Observation
(during GCTC’s production Anger in Ernest and Ernestine; more about the play here)
September 15th (Daytime-exact time to be confirmed)
September 21st, 6-9 pm
Rehearsals between September 24-Oct 3 evenings (3-5 dates;
times to be confirmed)
Performance: October 4th, 7-9 pm
Phase 2: Shadowing
(during GCTC’s production of Beowulf in Afghanistan; more about the play here)
November 3rd (Daytime-exact time to be confirmed)
November 10th
Rehearsals between Nov 19-23 (3-5 dates times to be confirmed)
Performance: November 23rd, 3-5 pm
Phase 3: Performing
(performing a portion of Why it’s imPossible; more about the play here).
January 18 (Daytime-exact time to be confirmed)
January 28-30th (3-5 dates times to be confirmed)
February 2nd, 3-6 pm
Phase 4: Networking Roundtable workshop
February 3rd - roundtable workshop
The expectation is graduates will be available for all of the dates above and that they will be introduced and hired for future ASL performances with local arts organizations, including GCTC.
Accessibility: Please note that some rehearsals and times will be virtual while others will be required to be in-person. Access to the internet and coming to GCTC’s building (1233 Wellington St. W., map link here) is essential. GCTC’s building is step-free and wheelchair accessible. For more information about access at GCTC, please visit our website here.
If you require an alternative form of application, please contact GCTC’s Access Manager Drea (drea@gctc.ca) to discuss possibilities.
Apply Now
If you or someone you know is interested in participating in this professional development opportunity, please apply below by September 2nd.
How to Apply:
Complete the following Google Form (available below, or by clicking here) or submit a video by email to drea@gctc.ca that answers the following questions (Google Form questions available in this Doc here).
In addition to the Google Form, you must email your resume to Drea at the address above.
This program is generously supported by:
The Ottawa Community Foundation
NAC Indigenous and English Theatre
IATSE Local 471