Theatrical translation or theatrical adaptation? Staging Noises Off in Italy

Abstract

The distinction between translation and adaptation is generally dependent on the amount of rewriting and independence of the target text, but the intercultural nature of theatrical translation and its varied addressees (actors and target audience) proves that drama requires a flexible approach to the process conducive to the target play. This article aims to demonstrate that the dramaturgical decisions related to the target play influence the balance between translation and adaptation in stage translation, which pursues a target-oriented approach. Rumori Fuori Scena, the Italian version of Michael Frayn’s Noises Off, serves as the case study for a contrastive analysis that includes the source text and the performed play. Considering that the practitioners’ experience is of utmost importance to fully understand the expectations on the translation and the identity of the target play: the practitioner’s perspective unlocks new aspects relating to the borders between theatrical adaptation and translation.