Spoken, Written and Signed – A Shakespeare For Everyone
We are forever reminded of the importance of Shakespeare, not only on the theatrical landscape but also in the English language where everyday phrases we use originated with the Bard. His works are celebrated and performed worldwide because of their universal themes and stories, they are forever adapted and translated into many different languages. But seldom seen on the UK stage are translations into British Sign Language (BSL), but this summer Blanche McIntyre directs Antony and Cleopatra at Shakespeare’s Globe in a truly accessible production, writes Christopher Peacock.
Antony and Cleopatra, although about two historical figures, is a tragedy about the demise of these two lovers, one of Egypt and the other of Rome. After neglecting his duties to Rome whilst gallivanting in Egypt, then hearing of the passing of his wife, Mark Antony heads back to Rome when summoned by his fellow triumvir Octavius Caesar who wishes to remind Mark Antony where his loyalties must lie.
Whilst politics and war rage at home, Mark Anthony promises his love to Cleopatra, but when the Egyptian Queen hears that he is to marry Octavius’ sister Octavia, she flies off in a rage. In a classic Shakespearean tragedy finale, the lovers’ deaths come after a spate of mixed messages and deception that lead to the most tragic of ends.
Screens displaying the dialogue were at the back and sides of the stage, subtitling the performance. These aided those who do not understand sign language or have impaired hearing and helps create a performance told coherently in three languages simultaneously: the written, the spoken and the signed.
With help from BSL coach Adam Bassett the whole cast have created an incredibly engaging multi-lingual production. With a simple, stripped-back set and typical period costume the production isn’t distracting by a visually-heavy telling.
The cast are very strong, funny and engaging; from top to bottom there are great comic turns from William Grint as the Soothsayer and Nadeem Islam as Mardian.
In its very nature as a physical language BSL does, for some in the audience, probably feel more natural a medium of communication than Shakespearean verse. It has a directness that is incredibly efficient. For those not comfortable with Shakespearean language, having it signed and subtitled helps with understanding, even for those with little to no comprehension of BSL.
Shakespeare’s Globe, Bankside, SE1 until 15th September.
Times: Varied. Admission: £5 – £75.
Booking: www.shakespearesglobe.com
