Sign languages, the visual-gestural languages of Deaf communities, lack a written form. Therefore, until recently, it was not possible to “capture” these languages. The advent of digitised video recordings, computer technology and software development has made it possible to produce “signed texts”, i.e. video-recorded narratives in a sign language. This also facilitates translation from spoken/written languages into signed languages. However, translating literature into a sign language presents unique
challenges.
This project focuses on the translation of written literary texts into a sign language, specifically examining the translation of Anton Chekhov’s play “The Seagull” into Flemish Sign Language by a team of deaf translators. For the production [meeuw] of the Antwerp city theatre Toneelhuis, for the very first time, a repertory text is translated entirely by a team of deaf translators, to be performed in Flemish Sign Language by a mixed cast of deaf and hearing actors.
The aim is to document this unique translation process, focusing on the involvement of deaf translators
and the challenges of working between a written text and a (video-recorded) visual-gestural language. Comparisons will be drawn with the experiences of a South African Sign Language interpreter with specific expertise in interpreting artistic productions.
