The Hound of the Baskervilles, Torch Theatre’s Company 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.

Anwen from the marketing team caught up with Liz to find out more about BSL being used during shows and theatre performances...

You’ve received the script for the Torch Theatre’s autumn production of The Hound of the Baskervilles, explain the process from receiving the script to the actual evening where BSL will be used.

When receiving the script, the process for me is reading it through section by section until I have a clear understanding of the story then I can translate it into BSL.

How challenging is the process of using BSL and what difficulties do you come across?

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

Do you find BSL easier if you enjoy the script and what are your thoughts on choice of the Torch Theatre’s autumn show?

If I read a script and I enjoy it, I find it easier to translate. However, 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

How do you prepare yourself for the show, do you get nervous?

Do I get nervous? Yes, I can, 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.

How important is it that theatres up and down the country use BSL?

It’s important to have BSL in theatres. Having a barrier is not good as a lot of deaf people enjoy the arts, so it’s important to have that access.

If someone would like to come to the BSL performance, explain how it all works.

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 will be placed on the left hand side when you look at the stage, 

Describe BSL to our audiences.

BSL is a rich, beautiful language and should be accessible in all theatres.