A student will be helping to make a Shakespeare production inclusive by providing sign language during a performance in Lichfield.
Shakespeare in the Park, which will run from 22nd to 25th June at Maple Hayes, will see actors take to the outdoor stage for the production of Hamlet.
But the first time in the event’s history, the 25th June show will see a British Sign Language-translated performance thanks to student Rebecca Palmer.
The 17-year-old, who studies music technology at Birmingham Ormiston Academy, said that she had fallen in love with signing at school.
“I started learning sign language in primary school when I was nine, learning BSL Level 1 and 2 with my mum and two of my sisters.
“I completely fell in love with the language and was lucky enough to have an incredible teacher who really inspired me and drove my passion for signed performance in both the theatre and music setting.”
Rebecca Palmer
Rebecca is currently studying BSL level 6 with Sandwell Deaf Community Centre, which involves learning about and immersing yourself in deaf culture as well as the language itself.
She has previously interpreted for a pantomime performance of Beauty and the Beast where she signed both the dialogue and the songs.
“It was great fun and I loved adapting songs to find different meanings to match the storyline and the audience.
“I also enjoyed the use of expression and movement – mimicking the dance and the comedy element of the panto.”
Rebecca Palmer
Rebecca said that while she was excited to sign the Shakespeare in the Park performance, the language used in Hamlet would provide a challenge.
Some lines have required extensive research to find ways of making the text work in British Sign Language.
“It’s going to be a huge challenge translating and performing Hamlet, but hopefully I can rise to it.
“I am so honoured to have such an amazing opportunity and I’m super excited to perform alongside an amazing group of people.”
Rebecca Palmer
Tickets for Shakespeare in the Park are available online.
