Our Events
We created an exciting line-up of Deaf-led and Deaf-focused events. These events celebrate our history, culture, creativity, and the vibrant community that makes the Academy so special. They also help shape our legacy goals as we look to the future.
Gala Dinner
Join us for an unforgettable evening as the Deaf Academy celebrates its bicentenary with a prestigious Gala Dinner and Charity Auction sponsored by our Charity partner Kitson Boyce. Supported by Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood Auctioneers.
Enjoy an elegant evening while helping to raise vital funds that support Deaf young people with additional needs to thrive and reach their full potential. With BBC television presenter and proud Deaf role model, Yvonne Cobb and evening entertainment by Not the Cowboys.
Date: Thursday 19 November 2026
Time: 6pm arrival drinks, departures at midnight
Location: Winslade Manor, Exeter EX5 1FY
Previous Events
Gavin Lilley
Gavin Lilley, the well established Deaf comedian will be bringing his hilarious stories to you! Drawing on his experiences as a sign language user, a traveller and a weary father of three.
50% of the proceeds will be going towards our Bicentenary fundraising appeal.
Date: Saturday 4th April 2026
Time: 7:45pm
Location: Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Rd, Exeter EX1 1SN
Deaf Awareness at RAMM
Deaf Awareness Day event at RAMM in Exeter for families, sharing Deaf history, culture and language. (Free)
Date: Saturday 25th April 2026
Time: 10am-5pm
Location: Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery
Queen St, Exeter, EX4 3RX
Entrance- Free
John Smith: Comedy without barriers
Winner of the Outstanding Achievements in Comedy and Dramatic Arts Award 2024. John Smith isn’t just telling jokes – he’s pushing boundaries and redefining comedy with fearless wit and unstoppable energy. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind comedic force live on stage.
50% of the proceeds will be going towards our Bicentenary fundraising appeal.
Date: Saturday 2nd May 2026
Time: 7:45pm
Location: Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Rd, Exeter EX1 1SN
Deaf Rave
Founded in 2003 by Troi Lee MBE, Deaf Rave is an award-winning collective and cultural movement led by Deaf artists, DJs and producers. Known worldwide for breaking barriers in music, nightlife and the creative industries. Deaf Rave creates powerful shared spaces where Deaf audiences come together through music, expression and culture.
50% of the proceeds will be going towards our Bicentenary fundraising appeal.
Date: Saturday 6th June 2026
Time: 2:00pm family rave, 7:30pm 18+ rave
Location: Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Rd, Exeter EX1 1SN
Deaf Day
Our first Deaf Day in Devon will bring together Deaf individuals, families, professionals and allies to showcase services, share ideas and celebrate our community – this is an event for Deaf, hard of hearing and hearing people.
Date: Saturday 11 July 2026
Time: 10am – 4pm
Location: The Ocean, Queens Drive, Exmouth, Devon EX8 2AY
Entrance- Free