Deaffest

Deaffest, the UK’s leading Deaf-led Film & Arts Festival, returns for its 14^th festival this May with the theme Unlocked.

Deaffest will be taking place this year, after having been postponed from last year, from 6^th – 8^th May at the Light House in Wolverhampton UK.

“We are delighted to bring back Deaffest despite the challenges we have faced and the changes we have had to make for our festival this year.  Isolation is an issue for many Deaf people at the best of times, and during the pandemic and lockdowns, they have been amongst those who suffered most.  At Deaffest, we want to “Unlock” this isolation, enabling Deaf communities and individuals the freedom to discover a positive sense of their identity and re-connect with their rich culture in Deaf Films, Arts and BSL.  We have seen how people have developed and shared new skills, unlocking their potential and taking the opportunity to create something new.  At this festival we are opening our doors to you to come and see what talented Deaf Filmmakers, Artists and Performers have to offer.  We hope to see many of you join us in celebrating the return of the festival as well as strengthening the strong sense of community.” – Deaffest team

Deaf audiences rarely have the opportunity to attend an event which is representative of their culture and heritage, especially through films.  With the support of the BFI, awarding funds from the National Lottery, we look forward to the welcome of return of Deaffest 2022. The biennial festival removes communication barriers that have traditionally prevented Deaf audiences engaging in Film, Media and the Arts.  Through film screenings, workshops, panel discussions and performances, we provide access for both Deaf and hearing audiences.

The festival will celebrate one of the UK’s principle cultural calendar dates Deaf Awareness Week (4^th – 9^th May 2022) and also the Commonwealth Games 2022 which is taking place this July.  We are proud to promote their values of equality, diversity, and inclusion as we have always incorporated these in our work and past festivals.

At the festival, visitors are welcome to enjoy a showcase of films and documentaries by UK and international filmmakers as well as the 8^th Film & TV Awards Gala with live entertainment.  Come along to the stalls fair on the courtyard and check out the Art Exhibition in the Gallery area.  Take part in our exciting workshops and learn something new!

Stallholders are welcome to promote their charity/business or to sell products/creative work at Deaffest 2022. Click here for more information.

Information about workshops and the entry fees will be available on the Deaffest website soon. Tickets for the Film & TV Awards Gala and the Late Night Party will be available to purchase soon.  Due to the popularity of this event, we advise you to book your ticket as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Tickets are non-refundable.

Keep up to date with the latest news on our website and app, and by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For more information please contact enquiries@deaffest.co.uk.