Deaf-led · Artist-driven · Canadian-founded · International

Deaf artists are shaping what comes next.

A creative home where Deaf artists deepen their practice, experiment with technology, and build work that reaches the world.

Explore the retreat Application details

First retreat under the Sumain Theatre banner · Curated artist cohort

A shared language. A space to create.

ASLASLLSQLSQAaPlain language

Why Sumain

Sumain culture,
language, and leadership.

Sumain describes people who communicate through their hands—seeing, touching, and moving through sign language. Sumain Theatre creates Deaf-led projects rooted in that shared language, culture, and way of being.

01Sign language at the centre

02Deaf-led creative projects

03Sumain culture in motion

DARAS 2027 · Deaf Artists Retraite d’Artistes Sourds

Deaf Bodies
in Digital Media

A Deaf-led artist retreat exploring signed languages, movement, visual storytelling and digital media—with time to experiment, connect and follow your curiosity.

Artists sharing an outdoor group exercise at the previous retreat — Moments from the previous retreat.

Artists gathered for a signed discussion in a wood-beamed studio — Moments from the previous retreat.

What could you explore with time and space to create?

Set in a private sanctuary surrounded by trees and nature, DARAS offers individual creation time, collaborative experimentation and informal sharing. You do not need a finished project, and there is no pressure to produce a finished performance.

For: Deaf artists in Canada and internationally
When: June 20 – July 3, 2027
Where: British Columbia, Canada · Private location shared with selected artists
Artist fee: $2,500
Included: Travel, accommodation and catered meals

Application details

DARAS 2027 artist application

Bring your curiosity.
Explore together.

Apply as a Theatre Creator or Digital Media Artist. We welcome curiosity, artistic research and a willingness to participate in a Deaf-led creative community. Selection is not a competition for the most developed project.

What to prepare

About you

Your name, email, current location and the signed languages you use.

Your practice

Describe your artistic practice in 150 words, select your role and share the artists or skills you would enjoy working alongside.

Access and availability

Share your access needs and confirm your availability for June 20 – July 3, 2027, noting any scheduling conflicts.

Work samples

Provide an accessible link to examples of your work. A website or portfolio is optional; the suggested maximum length for supporting material is 5–7 minutes. Check link permissions before submitting.

Apply for DARAS 2027

Apply in English Postuler en français

Applications are submitted through Google Forms. Submitting an application does not guarantee selection.

EXPLORE · CREATE · CONNECT

Application Q+A

Before you apply

01Do I need a finished project?

No. DARAS focuses on exploration, experimentation and research. Bring your questions and ideas, with openness to both individual work and community participation.

02Which practices are welcome?

Theatre, dance, performance, visual vernacular, film, animation, projection, interactive media, installation, visual art, puppetry and interdisciplinary practices are welcome. The form asks you to apply as a Theatre Creator or Digital Media Artist.

03Can artists outside Canada apply?

Yes. The application welcomes artists based in Canada and internationally.

04What support is included?

The application lists an artist fee of $2,500, with travel, accommodation and catered meals provided. Personal trips and expenses on scheduled days off are your responsibility; staff do not arrange individual excursions or transportation.

05Where will the retreat take place?

At a private sanctuary in British Columbia, Canada. The exact location will be shared with selected artists.

06Can I get help with the application in ASL?

Application forms are available in English and French. For assistance in ASL, email sumaintheatre@gmail.com.

07What should I review before submitting?

Check that the selection team can open your work samples without requesting permission. Review the form’s participation acknowledgements, including development and producing credits if work advanced through DARAS is later shared publicly.

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