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Initiated and led by Surface Area Dance Theatre, we are bringing together Deaf people from across the North East who are passionate about the arts, culture and creativity and who want to have a greater say in what is developed, presented and made available in our region and beyond.

Together, we want to explore the barriers, gaps and opportunities that exist for Deaf people in arts and culture, while also celebrating what is already happening and imagining what could happen next.

This is not about Surface Area deciding the agenda. We want the group itself to help shape what it is, what matters and where it goes. It could be a space to share experiences, exchange ideas, influence programming, identify opportunities, champion Deaf artists and audiences, and help ensure that the future of arts and culture in the North East is shaped with Deaf people at the centre. We’re appointing 5 Deaf champions to influence the arts and culture scene in the North East.

We are at the beginning of this conversation and want to hear from the Deaf community about what this group could become.

Register online by clicking here.

Register by Friday 25 September 2026, 12 noon.

Alternative ways to register:

If you would prefer to submit your registration in a different format, that is absolutely fine. You can, for example, submit your responses by BSL video, email, or another format that works best for you.

If you would like to register in an alternative format, please contact:

Sara – General Manager, Surface Area Dance Theatre
sara@surfacearea.org.uk

Sara will be happy to discuss the best way for you to provide your registration and answer any questions you may have.