We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lisa McBee. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lisa below.

Hi Lisa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I first realized that my creative path was my true calling when I was just a kid. I vividly remember stepping into the spotlight during my very first Christmas play—an experience filled with the magic of storytelling, performing, and even a bit of directing. Back then, I was mostly self-taught, participating in oral competitions, ASL storytelling, and filming small projects. Every moment on stage felt like a spark igniting a passion I couldn’t ignore.

Growing up surrounded by creativity—especially with a father who was a magician and performer—I admired his ability to captivate audiences and create unforgettable characters. I felt an inner pull, a realization that the talent and love for entertainment ran in my blood, urging me to follow a path that was uniquely my own.

A turning point came in 2020 when I embraced the digital world with Visual Vernacular. Streaming live online during the pandemic pushed me far out of my comfort zone, transforming my creative expressions into a professional endeavor. This breakthrough not only built my confidence but also connected me with an audience that truly appreciated my work.

Now, as I join Gallaudet University, I see a new chapter unfolding. This unique environment, where Deaf culture and sign language thrive, offers me the opportunity to network, grow, and further refine my artistic journey. Becoming part of Gallaudet in a professional capacity has been an incredibly enriching experience, reaffirming that pursuing my creative passion isn’t just a dream—it’s the very essence of who I am.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a creative storyteller, performer, and digital content creator whose journey began at a very young age. Growing up, I was constantly inspired by the world around me—whether it was performing in my first Christmas play, participating in oral storytelling competitions, or experimenting with directing and filming my own projects. Being raised by a father who was a magician, clown, and character performer immersed me in an environment that celebrated creativity and showmanship. His influence sparked my early love for the arts and instilled in me the confidence to explore my own creative path.

My evolution as an artist truly took shape when I ventured into the digital space during 2020. Embracing live streaming and experimenting with Visual Vernacular allowed me to break out of my comfort zone and connect with a broader audience during a challenging time. This pivot reinforced my commitment to my craft and enabled me to offer a unique blend of performance art, storytelling, and digital engagement. Today, my creative work spans live performances, workshops, and digital content that bridges traditional storytelling with modern technology.

A significant milestone in my journey was becoming a Deaf interpreter for children’s television series such as Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, continuing the legacy of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. This work has been especially meaningful because it opens up a world of accessible content for Deaf children—a breakthrough I wish I had experienced growing up. While I enjoyed universally engaging cartoons like Tom and Jerry, which relied on visual storytelling, providing that same level of accessibility through my signing is a transformative step for the Deaf community
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At the core of my mission is the desire to bring people together through art—making creativity both accessible and resonant, particularly within the context of Deaf culture. As a proud member of Gallaudet University, I continue to deepen my roots in our rich heritage while expanding my creative network. What sets my work apart is this authentic blend of personal history, innovative digital expression, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity. I strive to create experiences that are not only entertaining but also empowering, inspiring others to follow their own creative dreams.

I’m most proud of my journey from a self-taught performer to a professional artist who continually pushes boundaries. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is a labor of love—a celebration of resilience, creativity, and community. Whether you’re seeking engaging performances, inspiring workshops, or simply a fresh perspective on storytelling, I’m here to spark that creative energy in every interaction.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound connection that creativity fosters. Every time I share a piece of my work—be it a live performance, a digital stream, or a workshop—I witness how art touches lives and builds bridges between people. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see a story or performance resonate, sparking moments of understanding or joy.

This journey is deeply personal—each project reflects a piece of my identity and the unique experiences that have shaped me, from my early childhood performances to those breakthrough moments during the pandemic. When my audience responds with feedback or shares their stories, it reinforces that creativity is more than self-expression; it’s about forming a community that uplifts and inspires one another.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is fueled by a mission to empower and connect communities through art, performance, and storytelling. I’m dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating spaces where people can share their talents and celebrate our cultural heritage.

During my time with Visual Vernacular Underground, I was involved in planning a two-day festival in May 2024 at a renowned Washington DC theatre. The festival was a tremendous success—it brought together performers from around the world, and I witnessed firsthand the passion and rich experiences shared by the audience as they enjoyed a diverse lineup of acts.

In addition, my current role at Gallaudet University continues to deepen my connection to Deaf culture and broaden my creative perspective. Inspired by this vibrant community, I’m now planning an expo that will provide a dedicated space for our community to come together, share their talent, and experience the magic of performance, visual arts, and language.

All of these experiences reinforce my mission: to use art as a universal language that connects, empowers, and inspires us all to share our unique voices.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcbeeasl
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcbeeasl
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@McBeeASL

Image Credits

Irina Burke. Joel Barish. Roger Vass. Dan Cook.