Theatrencore will be experimenting with cymatics – the translation of sound into vibrations through water – for Children of a Lesser God.

Anyone around during the 1980s will probably remember the film Children of a Lesser God, which won deaf actress Marlee Matlin an Academy Award for best actress. And now, local audiences have the chance of watching the stage version of the film which is being produced by Theatrencore early next month.

The play centres around the love story that develops between a deaf girl, played by Sharon Bezzina, and her speech therapist, played by Charles Sammut, with all the highs and lows that it brings.

This is probably the first play in Malta that is going to be access-ible to the deaf community because of the use of sign language during the performance. However, the play can be understood totally by anyone, even without the knowledge of sign language. In fact, all senses – particularly the sense of smell – will be used to give the audience a full experience of the action of the play.

Theatrencore will also be experimenting with cymatics – the translation of sound into vibrations through water.

“Rehearsals are exciting … and challenging,” says director Tyrone Grima.

Apart from the usual blocking and discussion of characters, this play has further layers that need to be explored. The sign language needs to be amalgamated into the actions of the actors in such a way that the physicality flows with the signing. The space of the action is constantly changing, and this is partially determined by a minimalist set that needs to be moved around as part of the action.

Grima says that the play is relevant to all of us as it touches upon areas such as love, relationships and the fear of intimacy.

“Of course, the play deals also with the deaf culture, and raises awareness about the difficulties that this population experiences particularly in relationships,” he says. “However, the play transcends this and offers a deep story of a man and a woman who are trying to reach out for each other, and yet are afraid of doing so.”

The play offers a deep story of a man and a woman who are trying to reach out for each other, and yet are afraid of doing so

Bezzina says that apart from the process of learning sign language – which is a feat in itself – her main challenge is expressing all that she feels and needs to say through the use of sign language and facial expressions only.

“The best part of this production has been the opportunity to work with people who belong to the deaf community and aspiring to understand their reality,” she adds.

Set design is in the hands of Adrian Mamo, while Michael Quinton is in charge of sound design. The cast is rounded up by Joseph Zammit, Mariella Muscat, Stefan Farrugia, Monica Attard and Alexandra Camilleri Warne.

The play is supported by the Malta Arts Fund.

• Children of a Lesser God is being staged at Blue Box Theatre, M Space, Msida on May 1 and 2 at 8pm. Tickets may be obtained online from http://bluebox.azurewebsites.net or by calling 2124 6644.