“Expanding What’s Possible:” Disney’s “Songs in Sign Language” Debuts April 27th

A collaboration between Disney and Deaf West Theatre is born

The Deaf community is celebrating a special moment for National Deaf History Month, a collaboration between Disney Animation Studios and Deaf West Theatre! 

The collaboration is Disney Animation’s Songs in Sign Language, consisting of three songs: “The Next Right Thing” (Frozen 2), “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” (Encanto), and “Beyond” (Moana 2), all animated in ASL (American Sign Language).

Director and animator Hyrum Osmond, a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), was inspired by his Deaf father to create this project. Osmond didn’t learn ASL in his adolescence and as a result, didn’t feel as connected with his father. Regardless, his father was supportive of his career, and this project became a thank you with the goals of breaking down barriers and becoming more connected with the Deaf community.

Deaf representation behind the camera

While Deaf representation in front of the camera is important, it’s just as important to have Deaf representation behind the camera, giving input and direction throughout the entire production process. 

A collaboration with Deaf West Theatre made this possible, with DJ Kurs as Artistic Director and Catalene Sacchetti as sign language reference choreographer. Deaf actors were hired to match the cultural backgrounds of the characters.

Content creator and world traveler Jojo Savea was a consultant on “Beyond” from Moana 2. As a Deaf Samoan, the intention behind this project resonated with her. “I’m Deaf, Samoan, and grew up deeply rooted in my culture, so this was very personal to me. Deaf Pasifika representation is still so rare, and growing up, Moana was one of those stories where I truly felt seen. I saw my people, our values, our spirit, and myself reflected in that story. So to now help bring it to life through sign means a lot,” Savea said.

A heartfelt reaction from the Deaf community

The Deaf community like everyone else grew up with Disney movies, but at first, there were no closed captions available on any film, including Disney movies. Closed captions were first made  readily available in March 1980. From 1980 until now, those whose native language was ASL relied on captioning to know what was being said in the films. Now, they get to see their native everyday language on the Disney screen for the first time.

Sometimes, hearing people tend to ask, “Why don’t Deaf people just read the captions or subtitles?” But English and ASL are different languages. ASL has a grammar structure and syntax that is completely different from English, following a SUBJECT-VERB-OBJECT structure, whereas ASL follows TIME-TOPIC-COMMENT or OBJECT-SUBJECT-VERB. Therefore, English captions alone may not be as efficient for everyone, especially viewers whose native language is ASL.

Filmmaker and content creator Chrissy Marshall said, “I think I was just so excited that a major studio worked with the Deaf community to make something so meaningful. Watching it healed some of my inner child.”

Hope for future generations of the Deaf community

So what do we hope this brings to the Deaf community in the future, especially for the kids? For writer Jonaz McMillan, it’s hope for even more representation, expanded into more than just songs. “As a writer and creator of children’s content, this made the light of hope feel even brighter. Looking ahead, I hope it opens doors for future generations of Deaf children and creators. They deserve to see themselves reflected in stories and to feel that their language and experiences are valued. For me, it’s all about expanding what’s possible and shifting the landscape in a real, lasting way. In the name of growth and all the possibilities.

Songs in Sign Language debuts April 27th.

Feature Image Credit: Disney Animation Studios