RespectAbility Entertainment Professionals Lab, Summer 2023
Jules Dameron
Jules Dameron (he/him) is a deaf trans and gay film & theatre director, actor & writer, working with both deaf and hearing actors. Jules graduated from Gallaudet University with a B.A. in TV/Cinema and then obtained an MFA in Film Production/Directing at one of the leading film schools in the world, the University of Southern California. Shifting between both deaf and hearing cultures, Jules has a strong insight into how the deaf community has a different way of sharing information. Mediating between two cultures has helped Jules harness a direction style and vision that is unique and unparalleled.
Jules has worked on a truck-load of projects, from low budget to high budget, from music videos to webseries. Among the highlights are directing Møkkakaffe, a 7-episode series in Oslo, Norway for the NRK channel, and a series of ASL videos for Sesame Street, helping provide the same experience and amusement to young viewers through a deaf lens. Jules is also currently the writer and director of the soon-to-be-made feature film, Deaf President Now, a film illustrating the events of the Deaf President Now protests at Gallaudet University in 1988. Jules is also co-writing / co-directing a play called, What is Emily Drawing? highlighting the effects of language deprivation in deaf children.
When not in the director’s chair, Jules extends his acting talents to the stage, playing various roles in notable shows like Romeo and Juliet, Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Lés Miserables. Upcoming is his role of Harry for Company which will be shown on the Lincoln Center stage in New York City. Jules aspires to work more with hearing creatives to pave the way for more authentic representation in the media.
Learn More
After an extensive search and interview process, 20 individuals were invited to participate in the Los Angeles Cohort of RespectAbility’s 2023 Entertainment Lab taking place May 1 – June 9, 2023. This 6-week Lab aims to develop and elevate the talent pipeline of disabled entertainment professionals working behind-the-scenes in television, film, and streaming, while connecting them with industry professionals and creatives. Participants include people with physical, cognitive, sensory, mental health, and other disabilities ranging in age from people in their 20’s through their 50’s. The Lab is a recipient of The Roddenberry Foundation Impact Award.
