‘A New Home’ cast brings ASL to the stage

Show opens October 30

Roxanne Baker, at right, an educator and activist in the deaf community, is pictured here teaching American Sign Language (ASL) to cast members of the upcoming Community Little Theatre production of “A New Home.”

The entire cast of thirty is learning ASL interpretation for “One More Goodbye,” one of the musical numbers in the show. Written by Paul G. Caron, the show’s director and composer, the song is a moving tribute to the 18 lives that were lost in the tragic mass shooting that occurred in Lewiston on October 25, 2023.Four of the victims were members of the local deaf community.

Baker, an alumna of the Governor Baxter School for the Deaf in Falmouth and a member of the board of directors for The Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (and the Baxter School), has assisted the cast at several rehearsals, along with the assistance of ASL interpreters.

“A New Home” explores the evolving story of Lewiston and the moments that have shaped its identity. The show brings to life the stories of Lewiston’s Indigenous, Irish, Franco-American, and African immigrant communities, whose contributions have shaped the city’s identity and culture. It celebrates shared memories, honors cultural diversity, and reflects on the triumphs and tragedies that define this community.

For more information about “A New Home” or to purchase tickets, please visit laclt.com/a-new-home. The show will be performed on October 30, November 1, 6, 7, and 8 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2:00 p.m. on November 2 and 9. All performances will be held at the Lewiston Middle School Auditorium on 75 Central Avenue in Lewiston.

Thanks to the support of the Maine Arts Commission, two of the performances of ‘A New Home’ (November 2 and 8) will also feature full ASL interpretation to ensure accessibility for all audience members.