The Dallas-based Prism Movement Theater is reimagining what accessible performance can look like with its upcoming 258 (Very Interesting) Deaf Variety Show, a cabaret-style celebration of Deaf performers, Deaf culture, and visually captivating art forms.

Directed by Alix Gavin, Rebekah Covington, and Jeffrey Colangelo, the show promises an evening of dance, circus, clowning, fire performance, and ASL poetry, all intentionally designed with Deaf audiences in mind.

“For years, we’ve had the feeling that Prism’s unique approach to wordless theater would work excellently for the needs of Deaf audiences,” says Colangelo, Prism’s artistic director. “After collaborating with Deaf artists Rebekah Covington and Alix Gavin, we discovered we had the chance to create something that didn’t just make theater accessible, but truly centered Deaf experiences.”

That focus drives every element of 258. Too often, Colangelo explains, “Deaf-accessible” productions require audiences to glance away from the action to watch an interpreter, an arrangement that can cause them to miss pivotal moments. This time, the interpreters aren’t off to the side translating for Deaf audiences. Instead, they’re there for the hearing crowd, translating a show that is performed entirely in ASL and visually rich movement.

“With our upcoming Deaf Variety Show, we’ve designed the performances so the audience will never have to turn away from the action to enjoy it,” Colangelo says. “ASL becomes the movement art we focus on, with our hosts, Alix and Rebekah, speaking entirely in ASL to introduce the acts. It’s truly a show designed by Deaf artists for Deaf audiences.”

Still, hearing audiences are more than welcome. “We highly encourage them to attend as well,” Colangelo adds. “They’ll get to immerse themselves in Deaf culture, while enjoying a night filled with poetry, fire, clowning, and circus.”

The show’s name — 258 — comes from ASL slang meaning “very interesting.” It’s an apt descriptor for a production where every act, from Deaf dancer Kenjuto Jerome to Deaf comedian Sabrina Mercado, has been curated for maximum visual and cultural impact. Clowns Shanthany Wilkerson and Jonah Gutierrez bring physical comedy into the mix, while the glow of candlelight and the intimacy of the cabaret format create a communal atmosphere.

• Artstillery Building – August 22 & 23 at 7:30 pm
• Bachman Lake Recreation Center – September 5 at 7 pm
• Dallas Children’s Theater – September 13 at 7:30 pm

Tickets are $15 and available at prismmovementtheater.org/tickets.

For Prism, 258 is part of a larger mission. Since 2017, the company has expanded its work in underserved Dallas communities, producing original movement-based theater that blends inclusivity, artistry, and community engagement. With 258, which is supported by a Moody Fund for the Arts grant, they’re taking that ethos further, ensuring that Deaf audiences aren’t just accommodated, but celebrated.