Sign of Love DVD
Written and Directed by Mary Evelyn Notgrass
Performed by the Homeschool Dramatic Society
About Sign of Love
A cast of forty-six homeschooled children and graduates present the true story of Thomas Gallaudet (1787-1851) and his work to establish the American School for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1817. Hymns, folk songs, original musical numbers, and choreography combine to bring this moving story to life for the entire family.
Sign of Love opens in the year 1800 when Thomas is a young, sickly boy who likes to dream about the future and what might happen when he grows up. As Thomas becomes a man, he struggles to find his place in the world and wonders what the Lord wants him to do with his life. When Thomas is in his twenties, he meets Alice Cogswell, a little deaf girl who has been shut out from society. Thomas finds purpose and fulfillment in his life when he realizes the need for someone to open the minds of deaf children and adults in America, and he decides to let the Lord do that through him. Thomas’ goal in educating the deaf is not only to teach them how to read and write and communicate; he wants them to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
Writer and Director: Mary Evelyn Notgrass
Assistant Director: Charlene Notgrass
Musical Director: Bethany Notgrass
Pianist: Kay Pelham
Camera: Tim Porter
Video Editing: Nathaniel Bluedorn
This play was performed by the Homeschool Dramatic Society and filmed at the Cookeville Drama Center in Cookeville, Tennessee, on September 15, 2006.
All ages. DVD in standard case. Approximately 90 minutes.
Production Photos
Click here to view photos from the production.
Feedback from the Audience
"The Sign of Love was outstanding--a real credit to the homeschool movement. The music, cast, writing and story were all superb. Thank you for a job well done." -- Tennessee
"What a moving drama. . . . My husband and I especially enjoyed the 'silent' Amazing Grace. Our boys enjoyed the little Thomas' singing." -- Tennessee
Feedback from Participants
"As a mother of 3 cast members in the performance of Sign of Love, I would have to say it is my all-time favorite play that the Homeschool Dramatic Society has ever done! I have a great aunt who is deaf, and I grew up watching her and my grandmother sign to each other. Her father had the insight to send her to Knoxville to a school for the deaf when she was very young even though it was hard for the family to let her go. So, the story of Thomas Gallaudet and how he established the first school for the deaf in America was very significant for me. Also, the scene in which the deaf students sign 'Amazing Grace' as the piano played the music moved me to tears every practice and performance. I realized 'Amazing grace how sweet the sound' when truly heard is heard more clearly with the heart than the ears." --Tammie, cast mother
"I was very blessed to be able to participate in the Homeschool Dramatic Society's production, Sign of Love. I played the part of a snobby spinster, but in reality, God taught me much through my involvement; He used the story of Thomas Gallaudet to encourage me to attempt great things for Him, for nothing is impossible with God! The most impressive character trait portrayed about Thomas Gallaudet was his love for and trust in God. I was challenged to seek a deeper walk with God." --Bethany, cast member
Sign of Love Cast