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Deaf Rock Band Beethoven’s Nightmare Helps Denver Arts Break Barriers

Beethoven's Nightmare

While members of the band Beethoven’s Nightmare can’t hear the instruments they’re playing, that doesn’t stop them from rocking out. Touted as the world’s first and only deaf rock band, the Los Angeles-based group will play a special concert Jan. 4 at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House.

“Music is a universal language, and rock ‘n’ roll speaks to all of us,” said Mark Heiser, Denver Performing Arts Complex venue director.

Sponsored by the Denver Office of Sign Language Services and ImaginASL, the concert will feature American Sign Language, mime and dance, as well as music, so that Deaf and hearing audiences can enjoy the performance.

The show was inspired by the success of Denver’s Breaking Barriers Festivallast fall, Heiser said, adding that “performances such as the Beethoven’s Nightmare concert really connect the Deaf and hearing community, and give us the opportunity to reach new audiences.”

Beethoven’s Nightmare will perform at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 4, 2019 at the Studio Loft in the Ellie Caulkins Opera House. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

Stacy was KUNC's arts and culture reporter from 2015 to 2021.
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