PORT WASHINGTON, NY— Short film "Feeling Through" makes history by showcasing the first deaf-blind actor in a featured role. Deaf-blind actor Robert Tarango stars in the film (pictured right in the photo).
It is the story of a homeless teen and deaf-blind man who strike up a friendship on the streets of New York City.
The Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults, a division of Helen Keller Services, announced the kick-off of a national screening tour for the film.
The film's New York debut was June 25 at the Port Washington Library's Lapham Room. Doug Roland, the film's writer and director, was on hand, as were cast members.
"Feeling Through" was inspired by Roland's encounter with a deaf-blind man in New York City years ago.
"It occurred to me that I had never met anyone who was deaf-blind before," he stated via press release. "And I certainly had never seen a deaf-blind individual in a film."
In order to accurately represent the deaf-blind community, Roland reached out to HKNC Executive Director Susan Ruzenski. A strong collaborative relationship between them ensued.
"Working with Doug on this project has been an absolute pleasure," she said. "Everyone at HKNC is thrilled for him and the film."
The Port Washington screening of the film took place during Deaf-Blind Awareness Week.
More information about "Feeling Through" can be found on its Facebook page.
