Thank you for your interest in being part of the Deaf/hard of hearing Youth Council!
All the questions in this form are directed towards the youth (not parents or caregivers).
If filling this out is difficult, we can also have a conversation with Anika:
- over VRS
- in a video call, Anika's ASL is conversational as long as you don't sign too fast
- we can book time with an interpreter
Just reach out to Anika at 778 223 7079 or access@childrensfestival.ca
At the Vancouver International Children's Festival we have been working on how we can share more of the amazing shows from all around the world with children who are Deaf or hard of hearing
Who can apply?
Any young person who is likes going to live shows and/or like to advocate for the Deaf community.
Our focus is on ages 8-22 but any young person who is interested can apply, regardless of their age.All deaf, Deaf and hard of hearing youth are welcome, part of the conversations will focus specifically on ASL users.
What is the Deaf/hard of hearing Youth Council?
What will you do?
DECEMBER - JANUARY
Meet to talk about:
- What it is like for you to go see shows
- What kind of shows you like
- How shows can be more accessible
with captions/surtitles, ASL interpretation, Deaf interpreters, information from the artist etc.
Make decisions:
- What shows are best for ASL-interpretation or ASL-integration
- What show do you want to be able to go to?
- How will we integrate the ASL? Hearing interpreter, Deaf interpreter?
- Or is there another way?
JANUARY - APRIL (optional)
Those who want can be on the team to
- Give feedback to artists of visual shows who created information to share with Deaf kids
- Create vlogs
- Create a plan for using ASL in a show
- Give feedback on translation into ASL
MAY 25 - 31
See shows at the festival
JUNE
Meeting for feedback
Meeting to see who wants to present at the training
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER
A training session for people who work in theatre to learn from you, Deaf and hard of hearing youth, what works best for you.
What would I need to do if I am selected?
- Come to 4 - 7 different meetings
- Share about your experiences going to shows
- Brainstorm about what would make you want to come to shows
- Come see at least 1 show at the Children's Festival
- Tell us what worked and what didn't (after the festival)
Who is part of this project?
The Vancouver International Children's Festival is leading this project and we have partnered with:
- BC Cultural Society for the Deaf
- Live Educate Transform Society (LETS)
- Carousel Theatre for Young Audiences
- Green Thumb Theatre
- Axis Theatre
- Presentation House
- Gateway Theatre
- Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre
- Granville Island Theatre District
Compensation
There will be a $20 honorarium for every meeting and every show you come to.
You get a second ticket for every show (for a parent, caregiver or friend).
The training will be longer so you will be paid at least $40 and more if you present at the training.
Deadline: December 13th, 2025
If you have any questions about this project, you can connect with Anika Vervecken at 778 223 7079 or access@childrensfestival.ca.
