Pictures in the Air: The Story of the National Theatre of the Deaf (Hardcover)

by Stephen Baldwin (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly
The development of the National Theatre of the Deaf (NTD) is recounted here by Baldwin, an advocate of the hearing-impaired. Spanning a period from 1959 to the present, the book begins with the author's serendipitous meeting with a deaf actress, Phyllis Frelich, and their collaboration on the breakthrough play, Children of a Lesser God. In recounting the struggles of the fledgling theater to reach a wider public, Baldwin reflects on the contributions of performers such as Anne Bancroft, whose role as the teacher of Helen Keller in the play The Miracle Worker promoted public consciousness of sign language as an expressive medium. Noting the distinction between theater of and for the deaf, as well as controversy among advocates of signing and of oralism, Baldwin emphasizes the inclusionary nature of NTD, particularly in the ways established plays are adapted to suit its performance style. "About 90% of the audience is comprised of non-signing hearing people," he states. This history of a special group that grew into a major acting company is a tribute to intercultural achievement. Photos.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal
This is a comprehensive study of the internationally acclaimed National Theatre of the Deaf (NTD). A showcase for deaf talent, NTD has not only given actors like Linda Bove and Phyllis Frelich a means of practicing their craft (and eventually entering America's mainstream theater), but has been a vehicle for first-rate theater for deaf and hearing audiences alike. A chapter of great interest deals with the unique communication style of deaf actors: American Sign Language, which is a language in its own right that is not only functional but beautiful. By tracing the history of NTD from its frustrating early years of searching for financial backing through its expansion into a worldwide program of renown, Baldwin presents a well-researched and -documented study. As the first history of this artistic repertory company to date, Pictures is essential for most theater collections. --Diane H. Albosta, Episcopal H.S. Lib., Alexandria, Va.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 142 pages
• Publisher: Gallaudet University Press (January 1, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1563680254
• ISBN-13: 978-1563680250
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.3 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,723,998 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic!!, February 24, 2003

By	"cidamon" (Bolingbrook, IL USA) - See all my reviews

This book is a wonderful look at the history of NTD. With details and behind-the-scene information, this book shows the -real- history of NTD. It has quotes from all the right people, and is just amazingly well-researched. There has not been another book about NTD like this, and I doubt there will be for a long time yet to come. Definitely a must-read!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars National Theatre Of The Deaf (NTD), September 1, 2003

By	Deaf Writer "deafwriter" (Grand Rapids, MI United States) - See all my reviews

If you are interested in learning about Deaf culture and entertainment, this is a book well worth your while. It is filled with information as to how the NTD came to be, who the founding members were (as well as members beyond that time), what plays were performed up until the writing of the book. There are some photographs as well.

A good bok with good information, but not the most exciting read you'll find. It's also not up to date, but it gives you a good idea. Recommended by this deafie. :v)