Deaffest had the immense privilege of commemorating two remarkable milestones in early May: the 20th anniversary of the legendary John Smith’s comedy career and his 60th birthday! The celebratory weekend was truly unforgettable, drawing an enthusiastic crowd to the Newstead Centre to honour a beloved icon of the Deaf community.
The festivities were filled with unforgettable highlights. The incomparable John Smith brought the house down with his signature brand of side-splitting humour, leaving audiences laughing throughout. Colin Thomson delivered soul-stirring sign songs that moved and mesmerised, while the ever-talented Richard Carter captivated attendees with his powerful and emotive poetry. Adding a magical flair to the celebration was none other than Magic Morgan from the USA, whose spellbinding performance lit up the stage and added an international sparkle to the event.
A special Q&A session offered fans a rare opportunity to engage directly with John, asking questions about his incredible journey, creative inspirations, and the enduring legacy he has built over two decades in comedy and performance.
In recognition of his extraordinary impact on the arts, John Smith was honoured with the Outstanding Achievement in Comedy and Dramatic Arts Award at Deaffest 2024. This accolade celebrates not only his exceptional talent but also his lasting contributions to the worlds of comedy and drama within the Deaf community.
And if you haven’t yet had the chance to watch John’s interview on ‘Deaffest: Rewind’ from a few years ago, don’t miss out – be sure to check it out and take a trip down memory lane with one of the community’s most cherished figures!
Deaffest 