Beth Prevor
Deaf Arts Accessibility Expert
I have long believed in a simple truth: theatre is for everyone—including Deaf and hard-of-hearing people. As co-founder and Executive Director of Hands On, I channel my experiences in theatre and interpreting into building access, inclusion, and connection.
Watch my interview with Mark here.
I started out as a freelance stage manager, learning all the backstage ropes—timing, logistics, creative tension. When I encountered a production involving Deaf performers, I became fascinated with sign language and the question: Why can't every show be accessible? So I undertook interpreter training. It wasn’t a detour—it became my direction.
With passion and persistence, I co-founded Hands On. Since then, we have mounted over 500 sign-interpreted productions at venues like Roundabout Theatre, the Public Theatre, New Victory Theater, Radio City Music Hall, and open outdoor performances in Central Park. Beyond interpreting performances, we consult with theatres on embedding Deaf access, lead outreach to Deaf communities, and maintain a cultural calendar of accessible events in New York City.
In parallel, I'm proud to serve as Director of Interpreting Services at the New York City Department of Education, supervising interpreters and paraprofessionals who support Deaf students, parents and staff. I also contribute to advisory boards and institutional projects—Lincoln Center’s accessibility initiatives, the New Jersey Theatre Alliance’s Cultural Access Network, and the Ford’s Theatre accessibility evaluation among them.
My background includes a B.A. in Theatre from Brooklyn College and an M.A. in Deafness Rehabilitation from NYU. My guiding principle is this: access is not optional—it’s essential. I don’t see my work as charity; I see it as rights in practice. I don’t just invite people in; I help break down the walls that kept them out.
