Paper Hearts – A Short Film Celebrating Connection, Creativity, and Deaf Culture

Paper Hearts is a tender, character‑driven story about Alice, an outgoing deaf teacher, and Peter, a taxi driver struggling under the weight of his past. The two meet through a local writing club, where they begin exchanging hidden messages tucked between the pages of books. What starts as a quiet curiosity grows into a meaningful connection — one that helps Peter slowly step out of his shell and rediscover his voice.

“We are proud to have Paula Clarke, a respected deaf actor known for her theatre work and BBC appearances, in the role of Alice. The project also brings together familiar Bright Umbrella creatives, including Sarah Spence and Houdi McCabe. The wider deaf community and deaf organisations have already shown generous support, reinforcing the importance of authentic representation and accessible storytelling.

To help bring Paper Hearts to the screen, we have launched a GoFundMe campaign. Funds raised will support accessible production practices, fair pay for artists, and the creation of a film that highlights the richness of deaf culture while telling a universal story about connection and healing.”

More information, including a video presentation, can be found here: www.gofundme.com/f/paper-hearts

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New Belfast Community Arts Initiative trading as Community Arts Partnership is a registered charity (XR 36570) and a company limited by guarantee (Northern Ireland NI 37645).Registered with The Charity Commission as New Belfast Community Arts Initiative - NIC105169.