Stranger Than Usual

After a devastating event, Asphyxia’s life suddenly changed irrevocably. Using music and Auslan, Asphyxia tells a unique and personal story, through song, about the experience of being Deaf, queer, chronically ill and needing to use a wheelchair. These songs chronicle her journey to healing, filled with love, loss, discrimination and humour. 

Despite being Deaf, three years ago, Asphyxia began writing her own music. Navigating the challenges of learning musical conventions in a teaching world that relies on listening, Asphyxia collaborated with several musicians to find a way to make music accessible to herself… and others who are Deaf and hard of hearing.

With songs written by Asphyxia and a live band featuring Sarah Ward, Bec Matthews and Erica Pringle, Stranger Than Usual is presented in Auslan and English with projection art, vibrations, captioning and interpreting by Ilana Gelbart. 

Stranger Than Usual premiered at the Midsumma Festival 2023 and was produced by Fat Fruit and The Midsumma Festival.