This was my 2nd year terpping the Renfest with Gary and Tawnya.
The event is well attended by the Tampa Deaf community who greatly appreciate the accessibility we as a team bring to the event.
The performers enjoy involving the interpreters and incorporating us into the shows which did add another Deaf dimension to the whole festival.
After every show so many Deaf and ITP students came by to thank us for the contribution we bring to the festival.
Spending a weekend in the Shire of Tampa with so many interesting and whimsical people who devote so much time to bringing the magic of Renfest alive was an awesome blessing and being part of the magic of sharing it with the Deaf and interpreting students was a real thrill I will never forget.
Thanks to Gary and Tawnya for giving me the opportunity to hone my performance skills at Renfest and share them as well with the Deaf community of Tampa and the dedicated students of the art of performance interpreting.
Looking forward to Renfest 2019.
Mark Finkin
“Tawnya and Gary truly are some of the most supportive people that I’ve met in this profession. As a student interpreter myself, their efforts of pairing me with certified interpreters and their friendly and open demeanor made the experience very approachable for me. As for the festival, it’s a whirlwind of shows with a wide range of topics and stylized vocabulary. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll hope the knife juggler doesn’t get too close! It’s a fantastic time overall. Can’t wait for next year!”
Brandon Schefstad, FL
I am currently a student in an Interpreter Training Program and this experience was invaluable! I learned so much in just 2 days it was incredible! Anyone who did not take advantage of this opportunity missed out on an incredible experience! Throughout both days, I had experienced interpreters supporting me every step of the way and helping to guide me through the entire event. I had an amazing time at the festival and I hope I am able to participate next year as well! Gary and Tawnya made sure I felt welcome and comfortable and were sure to answer any questions I had! I simply cannot say thank you enough for this amazing opportunity
