(PHOENIX, Ariz., Oct. 29, 2004) - Two days after his last final, American Sign Language student, Gene Lauze headed to New York to interview for a position with Deaf West Theatre. In less than a week, he was working for the company.

Within days of receiving his certificate, Gene was already putting his sign language skills to the test as the newest assistant wardrobe supervisor for Deaf West Theatre. While some students may shy away from the instant change from classroom to real world, Gene eagerly accepted the challenge. He immediately was assigned to work with the cast and crew of Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn as their assistant wardrobe supervisor.

The Deaf West Theatre's production of Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, which was adapted from the novel by Mark Twain, mixes American Sign Language with spoken English, music and dance. The entire production is performed by members of the deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing communities.

"Big River is a magical production," said Gene. "It literally interweaves the importance of accepting our cultural differences with the understanding of the deaf culture."

As the assistant wardrobe supervisor, Gene interacts with the entire cast, which consists of deaf and hard-of-hearing actors. He uses his ASL skills to communicate with the actors backstage as they prepare for their next entrance.

"Whether we are getting the actors into wardrobe or cueing them for their stage entrance, it truly is a unique experience," added Gene. "ASL is a difficult language to learn. However, I loved learning about the deaf culture and the academic work involved in the program. Now I'm putting my skills to the test by working in a true ASL environment. I use my skills daily."

Gene plans to return to Phoenix College for the Interpreter Preparation Program in Fall 2005.

Get your tickets now for the Deaf West Theatre production of Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The national tour will touch down in Tucson, Arizona Jan. 5-9. For tickets, call (520) 621-3341 or visit www.uapresents.org.

For more information about Deaf West Theatre or upcoming shows, visit www.deafwest.org.

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