Warp Films is making a ground-breaking new drama, with the majority of its cast being deaf or using British Sign Language.
Reunion has been commissioned by the BBC and will follow the journey of a deaf man determined to right his wrongs, while unravelling the truth behind the events that led him to prison.
The 4×60 minute drama has been written by William Mager (pictured), a deaf writer based in Bristol, who’s originally from Sheffield.
“I wanted to address a difficult topic that’s mostly unique to the deaf community in the vehicle of a mystery thriller that educates audiences about what it’s like to be deaf, without falling into the usual tropes of ‘deep, rich and beautiful sign language’ and ‘living in a silent world’,” he explained.
“We have an incredible wealth of deaf acting talent in this country, and I can’t wait to see what they can do.”
Executive producers for Sheffield-based Warp are Mark Herbert (Four Lions, The Virtues) and Gwen Gorst (Unforgotten, A Discovery of Witches). The director is Luke Snellin (One Day, Wanderlust) and producer Helen Ostler (The Last Kingdom, Crime).
“At Warp Films we are dedicated to supporting ground-breaking narratives. Reunion is more than a drama, it’s a testament to the power of storytelling as a bridge between worlds,” said Herbert.
As well as the majority of the cast being deaf or using BSL, there will also be opportunities for deaf crew members.
“This emotionally resonant series not only challenges conventional storytelling norms but also showcases the power of redemption and the enduring bonds of family,” said Lindsay Salt, BBC Director of Drama.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing William’s brilliant vision come to life on screen in Reunion and thrilled to be working with him alongside Gwen, Mark and the team at Warp Films.”
Reunion is set and filmed in and around Sheffield and Doncaster. Filming will take place later this spring.
