Chris Fonseca talks ‘Follow The Signs’: “If you can’t find a community that fully represents you, consider starting one”

The Soho Theatre welcomes the world premiere of a new experimental piece blending hip-hop, dance, BSL and spoken English altogether, to create a one-of-a-kind experience full of heart, advocacy and identity. Guillermo Nazara chats with its creator, to learn all the details about this unmuted show, whose artistry and messages are determined to resonate.

How did the idea for this show come about?

Harry Jardine and I came up with this concept inspired by a hip-hop music video we co-created — a 10-minute version of “Follow the Signs” back in 2020. During lockdown, we discussed the future of this work, and its potential to be transformed into a theatrical version to start co-writing process of the script. We wanted to dive deeper into thought-provoking ideas we’re passionate about, especially through the lens of political landscape. Gratefully, we received a commission from Soho to elevate this idea to the next level. The rest is history—we staged the play in 2023 to an incredible response and are back with “Follow the Signs 2.0,” bigger and better than ever.

A mixture of rap, movement and BSL-led hip-hop. What’s been the process to combine and make all those elements work altogether like?

Combining all these elements has been both fun and challenging, requiring us to wear multiple hats! Harry and I have carefully strategised our roadmap within our timeframe. This project wouldn’t have been possible without our diverse team, including our creative producer, composer, sound designer, lighting designer, video and caption designer, BSL consultants, dramaturg, creative team, and cast. Their combined expertise has brought our vision of “Follow the Signs” to life, creating moments we’ll cherish forever.

Can BLS be a form of artistic expression in its own right?

BSL is not only a method of communication but also a form of artistic expression. It enriches cultural experiences and celebrates the beauty of language. There are many ways to express artistry through BSL, including sign dance, sign song, visual poetry, visual vernacular and more. The deaf creative community is thriving with talented artists who use BSL as their medium.

To what level, would you say, this show is expanding the creative boundaries of theatre?

This show has expanded the creative boundaries of theatre in many ways – we’ve integrated multiple art forms to push traditional boundaries and create a ‘gig’ feeling to the show. We’ve also brought together a diverse team for collaborative creation. Our approach to storytelling blends various creative languages and challenges perceptions through a political lens.

What challenges have you found during the making of this piece?

Playing my own character has been challenging, as the show is based on autobiographical elements. Unpacking and adding a few fictional elements to reinforce the personal experience has deepened the character. Throughout the rehearsal period, I’ve been discovering and exploring. Thankfully, the supportive team has allowed space for continued play.

Besides the characters’ struggles the show deals with, are there any universal themes that you’re trying to convey through it?

My advice would be to embrace your unique identity and experiences. Remember that your differences are what make you special and valuable. Seek out communities and spaces where you feel accepted and understood, whether that’s through art, activism, or shared interests. Don’t be afraid to share your story – you never know who might relate to it or be inspired by it.

It’s also important to educate yourself and others about your experiences. Knowledge is power, and understanding your own identity and culture can be incredibly empowering. At the same time, be patient with yourself and others. Finding where you belong is a journey, and it’s okay if it takes time.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to create the space you want to see in the world. If you can’t find a community that fully represents you, consider starting one. Your voice and perspective are valuable, and by sharing them, you might help others who are on a similar journey find their place too.

Why come see Follow The Signs?

If you’re Deaf or hard of hearing, and you want to feel represented, this is the show for you. If you’re hearing with Deaf friends or a family member, this show can help you gain better understanding of their experiences. If you’re hearing and you’ve never met a Deaf person before, this show will welcome you into our world, give you insight and create a safe scape to learn, be entertained and inspired. Everyone has an identity. Everyone deserves to be comfortable in their own skin. This show shines a light on that and we hope everyone who comes will leave feeling uplifted and ready to take the world by storm!

Follow The Signs plays at London’s Soho Theatre until 12 October (with tickets available on the following link) before also being performed at Manchester’s HOME from 5 to 9 November (tickets can be purchased here).

By Guillermo Nazara