On tour in London, LA Phil’s semi-staged performance of Beethoven’s “Fidelio,” a collaboration with LA’s Deaf West Theatre, integrated sign language into the opera’s dialogue despite facing practical challenges in staging and costume design. This unique approach added a new dimension to the performance, enhancing appreciation for Beethoven’s work and showcasing the versatility of the LA Phil.
Why it matters:
- Innovative inclusion: Integrating sign language in “Fidelio” highlights efforts to make classical music accessible to the Deaf community, broadening the audience and promoting inclusivity in the arts.
- Artistic experimentation: The collaboration between a major orchestra and a theater company for the Deaf introduces new interpretive possibilities, encouraging other classical music organizations to explore similar innovative projects.
