Deaf TV star Rose Ayling-Ellis and her professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice won the Must-See Moment BAFTA for their appearance on the UK television show Strictly Come Dancing. The music was turned off for a few seconds during their ballroom dance to Clean Bandit's song "Symphony" as the pair danced in silence.
Rose, an actor from the popular British soap opera EastEnders, was the first Deaf contestant on Strictly Come Dancing. Through her stellar performance on the show, she powerfully brought society's perceptions of the Deaf community to the forefront.
The BAFTA Presenter Impresses Viewers
English singer and television presenter Rochelle Humes gave Rose her BAFTA in the most touching manner by introducing the winner in sign language. Rochelle’s noteworthy action was in sync with the new UK law that recognizes British Sign Language (BSL) as an official language in England and Wales.
Rose Ayling-Ellis Uses Strictly Come Dancing as a Platform to Raise Awareness About Deaf Issues
Ms. Ayling-Ellis stresses that it isn't enough to simply have Deaf people in front of the camera. More should be behind the camera also, working as writers, producers, and directors.
“We still need to keep going, and keep the pace. We need people behind the scenes because that’s what makes it authentic and real to what Deaf people’s experiences are like." - Rose Ayling-Ellis
Watch the video below if you would like to find out more about Rose Ayling-Ellis -- insights on how she provides a role model for Deaf people, and also how she brought Deaf inclusion to the forefront of public attention by means of various modern efforts.