A STRANGE LOOP presented by Deaf Austin Theatre and Visionaries of the Creative Arts
Music, Book, and Lyrics by Michael R. Jackson
Directed & Choreographed by Alexandria Wailes

Washington, D.C.: July 23 – August 10, 2025 at Atlas Performing Arts Center

Deaf Austin Theatre (DAT) and Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA) announce a historic collaboration with a co-production of A Strange Loop, the Tony Award-winning musical by Michael R. Jackson. This innovative co-production will mark the first time two Deaf theatre companies in the United States have joined forces to stage a performance, bringing a fresh perspective to Jackson’s critically acclaimed work. A Strange Loop will be performed by a company of Deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing artists in ASL and Spoken/Sung English.

Meet Usher: a Black, Deaf queer writer writing a musical about a black, Deaf queer writer. This blisteringly funny masterwork exposes the heart and soul of a young artist grappling with desires, identity, and instincts he both loves and loathes. Hell-bent on breaking free of his own self-perception, Usher wrestles with the thoughts in his head, brought to life on stage by a hilarious, straight-shooting ensemble. Bold and heartfelt in its truth-telling, A Strange Loop is the big, Black, Deaf and queer-ass Great American Musical for all!

On this collaboration, playwright and Pulitzer Prize winner Michael R. Jackson said, “I am thrilled that Deaf Austin Theatre and Visionaries of the Creative Arts are collaborating to bring A Strange Loop to their audiences. Though A Strange Loop is told through Usher’s very specific lens, it has always been my intent that his story resonates universally throughout the human condition. I believe these two theaters will crack the piece open even further in a unique way that only they can do and for that reason, I enthusiastically support this co-production.”

Originally produced Off-Broadway in 2019, A Strange Loop premiered on Broadway in April 2022 winning Best Musical and Best Book of a Musical at the 75th Tony Awards. The Pulitzer Prize- winning musical is renowned for its raw, incisive humor and its deep dive into identity, self-perception, and artistic struggle.

Help Amplify Deaf Voices

We can't do it alone. Producing a music is VERY expensive.

Our production was originally awarded a a large grant, a powerful endorsement of our work. However, in an abrupt and deeply disappointing reversal, the grant was rescinded, reflecting growing political pressure against DEI efforts and LGBTQ+, Disabled, and BIPOC-led projects.

This setback is more than financial, it’s an attempt to silence the very communities this story uplifts.

We won’t let that happen.

Our total production cost is $385,000, covering:

Artist and interpreter stipends
Accessible rehearsal and performance spaces in DC and Austin
Costumes, set, lighting, and technical design
Housing and travel to two cities
ASL direction and translation
Transferring the production materials across the country

With the loss of our NEA grant, we now face a major funding gap and we’re turning to our community to help recover the $100,000 that we lost from the NEA.

Pitch Deck: https://shorturl.at/Hk6PJ

Your support is crucial in making this vision a reality!

Why A Strange Loop?

"A Strange Loop" is more than just a show—it's a movement. By supporting this production, you're helping to:

Amplify the voices of Deaf artists.
Provide a platform for creative expression that bridges communities.
Contribute to the future of inclusive and diverse theatre.

How You Can Help:

Donate Today: Every dollar you contribute goes directly to making this production a reality—covering everything from production costs to artist stipends.
Share the Message: Help us spread the word by forwarding this email to friends, family, and colleagues who believe in the power of inclusive art.

Your Donation Matters

Every contribution, no matter how small, helps bring A Strange Loop to the stage. Your generosity makes it possible for Deaf artists to tell their stories and for audiences to experience a new era of theatre.

About Deaf Austin Theatre (DAT):
Deaf Austin Theatre (DAT) is dedicated to creating compelling and inclusive theatrical experiences that celebrate Deaf culture and the Deaf community. Under the artistic direction of Dr. Brian Cheslik, DAT has become a leading force in expanding the representation of Deaf artists on stage. For more information visit deafaustintheatre.org.

About Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA):
Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA) is a renowned theatre company committed to innovative storytelling and creative exploration. Artistic Director Michelle Banks has led VOCA in producing transformative performances that push boundaries and engage diverse audiences. For more information visit vocarts.org.

A Strange Loop

Produced by Deaf Austin Theatre (DAT) & Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA)

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