Visual-Gestural Communication is a truly unique volume in non-language communication devoted to the study of universal gestures, facial expressions, body language, and pantomime.

Visual-Gestural Communication is a truly unique volume in non-language communication devoted to the study of universal gestures, facial expressions, body language, and pantomime. Readers develop the skill and confidence to interact -- sans shared language -- with individuals,¿such as someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, or who speaks a foreign language. The text and accompanying online resources feature a wealth of icebreakers, sequenced yet modular activities and assignments, as well as resources, student exercises, and teacher-guided tasks that explore aspects and amalgamations of nonverbal communication, theatre, and sign language. It is a tremendous resource for students of visual-gestural communication, sign language interpretation, American Sign Language (and other foreign sign languages), nonverbal communication, theatre, and performance studies, as well as community educators in deaf awareness and advocacy. In addition to the text's vital use in the theatrical arena, it is also applicable to teachers who wish to help their students maximize the use of their facial expressions, gestures, and body language as a prerequisite to learning ASL.¿

As one of Gil Eastman's VGC students in the 1970s, this book evoked warm nostalgic memories. Conley, Eastman's successor, expertly crafted a historical source with numerous thought-provoking activities for BOTH learners & instructors in a polyvalence of interdisciplinary fields. A must for many purposes! -Dr. Arlene B. Kelly, Chair/Professor: Department of ASL & Deaf Studies, Gallaudet University Conley's book is an important and inspiring guide that will enable and improve your nonverbal communication skills, no matter your background or specific goals. The wealth of exercises and activities listed provide a fun and practical framework to create positive growth and bring participants closer together. -Eric Beatty, Director, Homewood Arts Programs, Johns Hopkins University With this book, Willy Conley shares the history of visual, gestural communication and presents a cogent argument for its place in modern society and education. Visual-Gestural Communication serves as a valuable tool for educators and theatre artists. By applying the concepts and tools provided here in cultural and work settings, practitioners enable participants to find common ground and consequently build a sense of community. -Tim McCarty, President/Artistic Director, Quest Visual Theatre This is the perfect book that Mr. Bean, Jim Carrey, the Marx Brothers, Garfield, Lucille Ball, Laurel and Hardy will endorse with me. I find the chapters, lesson plans, exercises, and activities to be fun, relaxing, enjoyable and sometimes hilarious. Conley's opus is the antithesis to the Tower of Babel! The world needs this book to communicate more effectively. -Steve C. Baldwin, Ph.D., Texas, USA