In a groundbreaking collaboration, Spanish actress and director María Valverde and renowned conductor Gustavo Dudamel have embarked on a new project titled El Canto de las Manos (Song Of The Hands). This feature documentary aims to shed light on the extraordinary journey of a deaf choir as they tackle the production of Beethoven’s opera Fidelio. The film, directed by Valverde, delves into the heartwarming story behind the choir’s innovative interpretation of the classic opera.
Gustavo Dudamel, known for his role as the music and artistic director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, has long been fascinated by Beethoven’s Deafness. His passion for breaking boundaries and celebrating diversity led to the creation of a one-of-a-kind production of Fidelio at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. Bringing together an array of talented individuals, including opera singer-soloists, a vocal choir, signing actors from the Deaf West Theatre company, and the Venezuelan Deaf choir, Coro de Manos Blancas (White Hands Choir), Dudamel orchestrated a truly unforgettable performance.
El Canto de las Manos, or Song Of The Hands, chronicles the aftermath of the 2022 production and the choir’s preparations for a performance in Caracas, Venezuela. The documentary follows the lives of three choir members – Jennifer González, Gabriel Linarez, and José Gabriel Abarca – as they strive to achieve excellence on a global stage. Through their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering dedication, the film paints a poignant picture of resilience and the human spirit.
For Maria Valverde, the project represents a shift into the realm of directing. She sees the documentary as a powerful tool for bridging the gap between the hearing and Deaf communities, highlighting the transformative power of music and art for individuals who are hard of hearing. By showcasing the leadership and creativity of the members of El Coro de Manos Blancas, Valverde aims to challenge perceptions and foster greater understanding.
Spanning 90 minutes and filmed in both Venezuela and Los Angeles, El Canto de las Manos is a testament to the resilience and creativity of Deaf performers. The documentary captures the magic that unfolds when individuals are given the opportunity to shine on a global platform, embracing their unique talents and showcasing the beauty of sign language and Deaf culture. It serves as a tribute to the transformative power of performance and the endless possibilities that art offers to the world.
Produced in association with The DeNovo Initiative and The Breathe Project, El Canto de las Manos boasts a team of dedicated individuals committed to bringing this inspiring story to life. With former AMC and Blumhouse executive Marci Wiseman on board as an executive producer, along with a host of other talented individuals, the documentary promises to be a profound exploration of the human experience and the power of art to transcend boundaries.
As El Canto de las Manos prepares for its festival run, it stands as a beacon of hope and a celebration of diversity, showcasing the beauty of art in all its forms. Through the lens of this extraordinary project, audiences are invited to embark on a journey of empathy, understanding, and the transformative power of creativity.