The BDCA have been involved in a project called Dear Elizabeth to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee in June 2022.
Deaf writer Paul Miller wrote the script for Dear Elizabeth and travelled to work with members of the BDCA to film a performance of Dear Elizabeth.
The script told the story of Queen Alexandra, who was Queen Victoria’s daughter-in-law. Queen Alexandra was deaf herself and taught fingerspelling to the Royal household. She was a fashion icon in her day and had a large scar on the side of her neck which she used to conceal with beautifully handmade collars.
The first part of the Dear Elizabeth project was for the participants to work with a local textile artist, where everyone produced a unique collar. The second part consisted of the drama script, with Queen Alexandra writing to Queen Elizabeth congratulating her on her Jubilee and thanking her for bestowing the title Royal on the Royal Deaf Association. At the launch of the film, the BDCA hosted a traditional tea party to celebrate the occasion (photos below).
We at the BDCA would like to thank the Spin Arts Dance Team, who helped secure the funding for the Dear Elizabeth project.
Watch the Dear Elizabeth film here on Vimeo (registration and log-in required).
