Translation on Stage Today

Some of the most iconic plays on the English-speaking stage were first written and performed in another language, just as the contemporary theatre repertoire is enriched by new work from around the world. And yet the contribution of translation to theatre-making is rarely in the spotlight. In this inaugural lecture, Professor Geraldine Brodie discusses the plays and participants in the translation process for the London stage over the last twenty years – and looks forward to an increasing emphasis on the importance of translation within the collaborative work of theatre practitioners creating inviting and accessible productions for a wide range of audiences.

Photo credit: Amsterdam by Maya Arad Yasur, translated from Hebrew by Eran Edry. Translation commissioned by Actors Touring Company. Produced by Actors Touring Company and Orange Tree Theatre for national touring, 2019-20. Directed by Matthew Xia. In the photo: Fiston Barek and Michal Horowicz. Photographer: Helen Murray. Time Out Best Online Theatre 2020.