In this week’s episode I sat down with Daniel Durant and Britt Stewart. Daniel is a Deaf actor on stage and screen. He is best known for his starring role as Leo Rossi in CODA, a film that garnered three Oscar Awards, including the top prize of Best Picture. He also starred in Deaf West’s productions of Spring Awakening and Green Day’s American Idiot and made it to the semifinals of Dancing With The Stars alongside his then dance partner, now wife, Britt Stewart. His ongoing work also includes co-leading acting workshops for Deaf students and interpreting in schools, serving as an acting teacher and coach for Deaf film camps as well as national speaking engagements for colleges and universities. Britt is a professional dancer, choreographer, and creative leader whose career blends artistry, impact and authenticity in the entertainment industry. Best known as a Pro dancer on Dancing With The Stars, she made history as the first Black female professional dancer on the show and has since made an impact with her presence. She uses her platform to inspire balance, self growth and connection. As president of non-profit organization, Share The Movement, she champions access, education and representation in dance.
We discuss what Deaf representation looked like for Daniel growing up and why he decided to become an actor, Britt’s dance journey that led her to the Dancing With The Star’s ballroom, how they are both working to make their respective spaces in the entertainment industry more inclusive, their relationship and how they have made their world and their home more accessible and much, much more.
For this conversation we were joined by ASL interpreter Justin Maurer.
This episode was edited and produced by Ben Curwin.
All proceeds from purchasing this episode will be split between City Harvest and Food Bank For NYC.
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