In the heart of Barquisimeto, a look behind the scenes in rehearsal with the White Hands Choir
Members of the White Hands Choir (El Coro de Manos Blancas) rehearse in preparation for the 2024 tour of Beethoven’s Fidelio, Barquisimeto, Venezuela, February 2024. Photo by Yanasasha Pacheco.
In the heart of Barquisimeto, the Coro de Manos Blancas (White Hands Choir) is preparing for an upcoming revival and first-ever European tour of a groundbreaking production of Beethoven's Fidelio, created for both Deaf and hearing audiences. The production — a collaboration with the LA Phil and Deaf West Theatre led by Gustavo Dudamel, Alberto Arvelo, and DJ Kurs — will be staged in Los Angeles, Barcelona, Paris, and London in May and June 2024.
“We are showing the world what we do in our country to unite Deaf people, hearing people, and people with disabilities as a single team,” Coro de Manos Blancas member Jennifer González, 30, explained. “We are sharing our culture so that everyone can see how wonderful it is to live with love and equality.”
Guided by Assistant Conductor María Estefanía Prieto, the Choir members, who are primarily Deaf or hard of hearing, are diving deep into Beethoven’s soaring and transcendent choruses. With unwavering commitment, they are redefining the boundaries of what is possible in the world of classical music.
“For me, Fidelio's rehearsals represent a challenge of endurance,” Prieto explained. “We are the first Deaf sign language choir to participate in an opera, and the fact that we are doing it in such a big way motivates us with endless support and commitment.”
During rehearsal, communication takes on a unique form as the Choir expresses music through a combination of Venezuelan Sign Language (LSV) and choreographed visual movement. Each member brings their own artistic perspective and interpretation to the music, while working together to create a uniform choral harmony.
“I feel very proud to provide support for Deaf artists, to help them express themselves artistically, to empower them, to demonstrate their abilities, and to make them visible,” Prieto continued. “It is a precious opportunity to lead them through the music, as well as new musical and artistic experiences together, where, beyond integration, we seek brotherhood — solidarity and love — and equal opportunities for musical artistic development."
The upcoming tour marks a significant milestone for the Coro de Manos Blancas, showcasing their exceptional talent on the international stage and paving the way for greater inclusion and diversity in the world of music.
“Being a member of the Coro de Manos Blancas means a lot to me because we can show our efforts and our fight for a better future through our concerts,” González continued. “We are happy to see that our model is copied, and ‘White Hands Choirs’ are being formed around the world. I know that this makes everyone in Barquisimeto feel very proud.”
With profound dedication, passion, and artistic purpose, the Coro de Manos Blancas is poised to captivate audiences around the globe and leave a lasting impact on music and arts communities everywhere.
“Beethoven transmits hope,” González affirmed, “motivating us to move forward, so that the world can see the capabilities Deaf people have.”
