The world premiere of 'A Driving Beat' by Jordan Ramirez Puckett, which runs through March 30, 2025, tells the compelling story of Mateo, a 14-year-old boy, and his adoptive mother Diane as they embark on a road trip that explores their differing identities and family dynamics.

The use of ASL interpreters allowed deaf and hard-of-hearing students to engage more fully with the performance, while ASL students learned how sign language functions in a live setting.

Nicole Samsel, Flint Rep Managing Director and Interim Artistic Director, emphasized the importance of accessibility in performances, marking the inaugural use of interpreters at Flint Rep.

Ty Heisey and Kaitlyn Begley, ASL instructors, highlighted the educational significance of exposing students to different contexts where interpreters operate, enhancing their understanding of cultural diversity.

Heisey, who is deaf, noted that this experience would help students navigate environments like schools and healthcare when working with interpreters.

Begley expressed gratitude to FIM for supporting the interpreted performance, which offers invaluable insights into the deaf experience for ASL students interested in further education in sign language.

After the performance, students had the chance to interact with actors and share their feedback, fostering a dialogue between ASL students and their deaf peers.

On March 26, 2025, students from the Michigan School for the Deaf and American Sign Language students from Grand Blanc High School attended a unique performance of 'A Driving Beat' at FIM Flint Repertory Theatre, where they were assisted by two ASL interpreters.

FIM is committed to meeting the special needs of patrons and encourages requests for ASL interpreters when purchasing tickets.

The collaboration between FIM and local schools aims to promote inclusivity and appreciation for diversity within the community.