German sign language
Theatre for hearing-impaired and deaf spectators
Sign language can enhance the aesthetics of the theatre. Schauspiel Leipzig is convinced of this fact and, as a partner institution within the network “pik – Programme for Inclusive Artistic Practice” of the German Federal Cultural Foundation, the theatre is actively trying to render its performances attractive to people who communicate in sign language.
In previous seasons, there have been productions on the Main Stage with a simultaneous translation into German Sign Language; most recently, “Romeo and Juliet” was translated following the so-called shadow principle, where the sign language interpreters move along with the actors on stage.
The commissioned work “Altbau in zentraler Lage. Eine Schaueroper” by Raphaela Bardutzky is still part of the repertory at Diskothek. A team consisting of deaf and hearing performers play this bilingual piece together in both spoken and sign language.
As a further project, the sign language version of Leo Meier’s play “fünf minuten stille” is planned until December 2025. The production, which was created by members of the company and has been on the programme of Foyer 1 since January 2025, will be reworked: translated into German Sign Language and performed by three hearing impaired actors. The original cast of the show will synchronise the performance live into German spoken language.
In previous seasons, there have been productions on the Main Stage with a simultaneous translation into German Sign Language; most recently, “Romeo and Juliet” was translated following the so-called shadow principle, where the sign language interpreters move along with the actors on stage.
The commissioned work “Altbau in zentraler Lage. Eine Schaueroper” by Raphaela Bardutzky is still part of the repertory at Diskothek. A team consisting of deaf and hearing performers play this bilingual piece together in both spoken and sign language.
As a further project, the sign language version of Leo Meier’s play “fünf minuten stille” is planned until December 2025. The production, which was created by members of the company and has been on the programme of Foyer 1 since January 2025, will be reworked: translated into German Sign Language and performed by three hearing impaired actors. The original cast of the show will synchronise the performance live into German spoken language.
