Translation Performance Politics: Routledge Advances in Theatre Performance

Abstract

This article explores the complex relationship between translation, performance, and politics. It argues that translation is not simply a neutral process of transferring a text from one language to another, but is always mediated by the power relations and ideologies of the specific context in which it takes place. As such, translation can be a powerful tool for political resistance and social change.

Rewriting Narratives in Egyptian Theatre: Translation, Performance, Politics (Routledge Advances in Theatre & Performance Studies Book 45)

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Language	:	English
File size	:	3291 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	300 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the relationship between translation and performance. This is due in part to the increasing globalization of the theatre world, which has led to a greater awareness of the importance of translation in intercultural communication. Additionally, there has been a growing recognition of the political potential of translation, as it can be used to challenge dominant ideologies and promote social change.

This article explores the complex relationship between translation, performance, and politics. It argues that translation is not simply a neutral process of transferring a text from one language to another, but is always mediated by the power relations and ideologies of the specific context in which it takes place. As such, translation can be a powerful tool for political resistance and social change.

Translation and Power

Translation is a form of power. It is the ability to control the meaning of a text and to determine how it is interpreted by others. This power can be used for good or for evil. It can be used to promote understanding and cooperation between different cultures, or it can be used to spread propaganda and hatred.

The power of translation is particularly evident in the context of theatre. Theatre is a powerful medium for communication, and it can be used to reach a wide audience. When a play is translated, it has the potential to reach an even wider audience, and it can be used to spread a message to people who would not otherwise be able to hear it.

However, the power of translation can also be used for negative purposes. For example, translation can be used to censor or suppress a play that is critical of the government or the ruling class. It can also be used to spread propaganda or hatred.

Translation and Resistance

Despite the potential for abuse, translation can also be a powerful tool for resistance and social change. When a play is translated into a new language, it can give voice to the marginalized and the oppressed. It can challenge dominant ideologies and promote understanding and cooperation between different cultures.

There are many examples of how translation has been used for political resistance. For example, during the apartheid era in South Africa, many plays were translated into English and other languages in order to spread the message of the anti-apartheid movement to a wider audience. Similarly, in the United States, many plays have been translated into Spanish in order to reach the growing Latino population.

Translation can also be a powerful tool for promoting understanding and cooperation between different cultures. When a play is translated into a new language, it can help to break down barriers between cultures and to create a more inclusive society.

Translation is a complex and powerful process that can be used for good or for evil. It is important to be aware of the power of translation and to use it responsibly. When translation is used for positive purposes, it can be a powerful tool for resistance and social change.

References

• Bassnett, Susan. Translation Studies. Routledge, 2014.
• Gentzler, Edwin. Contemporary Translation Theories. Routledge, 2001.
• Pym, Anthony. The Moving Text: Translation and Cultural Exchange. St. Jerome Publishing, 2004.

Rewriting Narratives in Egyptian Theatre: Translation, Performance, Politics (Routledge Advances in Theatre & Performance Studies Book 45)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3291 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	300 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE