Deaf Action is a beautiful building and is over 135 years old, dating back to 1835, located very centrally in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Housing over three different size festival spaces these include a former church, a spacious bar/lounge area (that serves food and drinks) and a hidden garden.  Our programme features deaf led workshops, exhibition and performances for hearing and deaf audiences. 

John Smith, Britain's first Deaf comedian, is celebrating an incredible milestone... 20 years of stand-up comedy! Known for his quick wit, engaging storytelling and ability to connect with diverse audiences, John has become a trail-blazer, inspiring others with his resilience and creativity. Through his comedy he has not only entertained but also sparked important conversations about accessibility, representation and the power of laughter. If you are in Edinburgh, don't miss this chance to watch John and experience a night of laughter, reflection and outstanding comedy!

The John Smith Show

Gavin Lilley, the well-established deaf comedian, will be returning to bring you a new set of hilarious stories! Drawing on his experiences as a sign language user, traveller and weary father of three – his cringing moments of embarrassment and experiences during his encounters throughout his eventful life will make you chortle. Gavin has performed all over the UK and Europe, bringing laughter to deaf and hearing alike. Looking at the world today, it’s an opportunity to get a hilariously unique perspective of our diverse cultures (and the habits we’d rather keep to ourselves).

Gavin Lilley: Signs of the Times

Deaffy Drag Queenies Mary and Danielle bring outrageous fun, cheeky charm and deaf queer pride to the stage using BSL and Gay Sign Variant (GSV). Expect giggles, surprises and a few blushes in a fierce, feel-good show that entertains and empowers.

Deaffy Drag Queeny: Glitter, Gags and GSV

Three women. Three timelines. In 2000 and 2012, two deaf women disappeared without explanation. In 2025, faint traces of their lives begin to resurface. Echoes Across Time follows one woman’s search to uncover hidden connections and untold histories – a story shaped by silence, resilience and time itself. As the past awakens, new questions emerge: where do the missing traces lead and what is waiting to be found? Told in British Sign Language (BSL) with English voiceover and creative captions, this visually rich production is accessible to all and offers a powerful, deaf-led perspective into mystery.

Echoes Across Time

Magic Morgan and Liliana blend illusion, comedy and mime for a mesmerizing, family-friendly show. Experience humour, magic and wonder in an unforgettable performance. Get ready to be amazed!

Magic Morgan and Liliana

Ivory Cutlery is a 50-minute visual, musical storytelling performance, inspired by iconic Scottish artist Ivor Cutler. Ivor was a unique man from Govan, born in 1923, famed for songs/lyrics such as Women of the World Take Over and Why Don’t a Woman Love a Woman? Other songs are about quirky animals, everyday food or elements of Scotland’s natural environment such as I Believe in Bugs. The show will tempt adults to reconnect with their wilder imaginations and include traditional Scottish music, movement and BSL.

Deaf Action

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