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PETER COOK

Peter Cook is an internationally renowned Deaf storyteller, poet, and performer known for his dynamic blend of American Sign Language (ASL), mime, improvisation, and movement. For over three decades, he has captivated audiences with his visually expressive storytelling, elevating Deaf culture and language on global stages. As a native ASL user, Cook’s performances are deeply rooted in the rich traditions of Deaf oral literature, and he is widely recognized for transforming personal, cultural, and universal narratives into powerful visual experiences.

Peter has performed at prestigious venues including the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, and festivals across Europe and Japan. Cook also collaborates with poet Kenny Lerner in the acclaimed Flying Words Project, a bilingual performance partnership that bridges ASL poetry and spoken word, promoting cross-cultural understanding.

Beyond the stage, Cook is a dedicated educator and advocate for Deaf arts. In September, he joined Princeton University as a senior lecturer in the Linguistics and the Humanities Council, where he will contribute to the University’s growing ASL program. Through his teaching and performances, Peter Cook continues to mentor emerging Deaf artists and promote the enduring power of visual language and expression.