Rory Studio CIC is a Deaf-led arts organisation based at Dance City in Newcastle upon Tyne, dedicated to bringing Deaf culture, British Sign Language (BSL) and inclusive storytelling into the heart of mainstream culture. Recently incorporated as a Community Interest Company, Rory Studio CIC builds on many years of creative practice under the Rory Studio banner, formalising its social mission to serve children, families and communities across the North East and beyond. Its work spans illustration, animation and live theatre, often combining these forms to create vivid, visually rich experiences accessible to both Deaf and hearing audiences.

The company is led by founder and Artistic Director Paul Miller — an award-winning Deaf artist, animator, theatre director, writer and BSL user. Paul’s practice focuses on illuminating Deaf experiences, championing Deaf role models, and creating inclusive, engaging storytelling across multiple platforms. His acclaimed projects include:

• The Monster Chronicles book and film series (The Gingerbread Witch, The Pumpkin King, Solir the Alien)

• The children’s book Amelia’s Royal Adventure: The Magic of Queen Alexandra’s Gift

• Commissions for organisations such as Scope’s “Let’s Play Fair” accessible playground campaign

Paul’s animated works have received international recognition, including awards at Deaffest and Festival Clin d’Oeilin France.

Rory Studio CIC’s live performance work includes The Gingerbread Witch theatre production, which blends animation, storytelling and BSL, produced in partnership with Surface Area Dance Theatre and Moving Art Management, and supported by funders including Arts Council England, the Hadrian Trust and Unity Theatre.

Alongside touring productions, Rory Studio CIC delivers workshops, mentoring and community projects designed to:

• Nurture Deaf and disabled talent

• Encourage children’s creativity

• Build understanding and connection between Deaf and hearing communities

Through all its activity, Rory Studio CIC combines imaginative, high-quality art with a social mission, ensuring Deaf stories are seen, valued and shared widely, while fostering empathy, visibility and joy for audiences of all ages.