The Hound of the Baskervilles, Torch Theatre Company’s in house autumn production can be seen on the Torch Theatre stage for a strictly limited run this October. Liz May, BSL / English Interpreter will be on board on Tuesday 13 October for a BSL Interpreted Performance making Torch Theatre shows accessible for all. 

With less than two weeks to go, Liz has already received the script for The Hound of the Baskervilles, and will read it section by section until she has a clear understanding of the story before she translates it into BSL.

“It can be challenging. BSL and English are different languages. The structure, grammar and linguistics are different. For example, an English phrase would not necessarily translate into BSL so you have to work out how to get the message across whilst matching the script,” explained Liz who is a familiar face at the Torch.

With The Hound of the Baskervilles appearing to be a good production choice by Artistic Director, Chelsey Gillard, with tickets howling out of the Box Office at a hound’s pace, Liz herself is also a Sherlock Holmes fan, but this fast-paced production has its challenges.  

“This performance is complex because there are only a few actors but multiple characters. For example, the actor is character 1 but also character 4. For me, a clear difference must be shown in the translation. This is why I like to watch the performance, so I have a clear picture and can portray that character correctly” said Liz who admits she does get nervous before a show.

“Do I get nervous? Yes, but for me the nerves are important. They help me to focus and get me excited. It lets me create a better translation. Without nerves it doesn’t feel right.”

Liz can’t stress enough how important it is for theatres to use BSL in their performances – a language Liz describes as “rich and beautiful” as theatres should be for everyone.

“Having a barrier is not good as a lot of deaf people enjoy the arts, so it’s important to have that access. If you want to watch a performance, it’s best to know beforehand where the interpreter is placed so you can sit in the right place for access that suits you. This is important and I’ll be situated to the left of the stage as you look at it from where the audience members are sat.”

The Hound of the Baskervilles can be seen on the Torch Theatre stage from Wednesday 7 October to Saturday 17 October with a BSL interpreted Performance on Tuesday 13 October. Tickets from £18. Phone the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.