Visual Movement Workshop

Over three days in March 2026, invited participants will be offered an opportunity to work closely with Deaf performance artist and choreographer Chisato Minamimura.

During this intensive, Chisato will lead the group through key elements of her artistic practice, which integrates Visual Vernacular techniques alongside the use of text and audio description. Participants will gain insight into her interdisciplinary approach, exploring how movement, visual language, and access tools intersect within her creative process

What is Visual Vernacular?

Visual vernacular (VV) is a physical form of performance that draws on sign language and techniques from dance and theatre. Rooted in Deaf culture the form creates a physical narrative, using body language, facial expressions and gesture.   

Chisato Minamimura is a Deaf performance artist, choreographer and BSL art guide. Born in Japan, now based in London, Chisato has created, performed and taught internationally and is currently a Work Place artist at The Place. Chisato has been involved in aerial performances with Graeae Theatre Company, London’s Paralympic Opening Ceremony 2012 and Rio’s 2016 Paralympic Cultural Olympiad. Chisato trained at Trinity Laban in London and holds a BA in Japanese Painting and MA from Yokohama National University.

Chisato approaches choreography and performance making from her unique perspective as a Deaf artist, experimenting with and exploring the visualisation of sound and music. By using dance and digital technology, Chisato aims to share her experiences of sensory perception and human encounters.

Chisato’s work is highly regarded and supported by a number of organisations including Arts Council England, British Council, Unlimited, Wellcome Trust and Disability Arts Online. Chisato is fortunate to have received major commissions and funding to support the development and international touring of my work. Her work has attracted attention from national and international press through reviews, features, and interviews with TV, radio, print and online publications.

In partnership with Dance Ireland

For more info and how to apply for a space on this workshop, email [email protected]

Disrupt Disability Arts Festival’s Embedded Access Training Programme is funded by Rethink Ireland’s Disability Participation and Awareness Fund 3.0 and supported by Safe To Create, Fire Station Artists’ Studios and Dance Ireland.