This resource has been developed to support sign language interpreters in preparing for interpreted performances of Shakespeare’s controversial comedy. The Taming of the Shrew sits at the intersection of farce, romance, and enduring debate about gender and power. Alongside playful disguises and rapid banter, the play includes coercion, humiliation, and a finale that can be stage4s as submission, satire, survival, or performance. Interpreting it will require strong theatrical awareness, linguistic dexterity, and thoughtful collaboration with Deaf consultants and the creative team.
The aim of this pack is to empower interpreters to deliver performances that are not only accurate and expressive, but also accessible, engaging, and aligned with the artistic vision of the production. It has been designed with the needs of Deaf audiences in mind and recognises the unique contribution that signed language brings to the storytelling process.
Inside, you’ll find:
A detailed breakdown of the plot, characters, and themes
Analysis of symbolic and poetic elements in the play
Guidance on role-shifting, visual storytelling, and performance interpreting strategies
Space to document team coordination, rehearsal notes, and your own reflective practice
Whether you’re preparing to interpret on-stage, off-stage, in feed roles, or in ensemble collaboration, this preparation pack offers a structured foundation to guide your work. It is intended to be a living document - something you can adapt, annotate, and make your own.
Thank you for your dedication to making Shakespeare’s work come alive through sign language. Your preparation, insight, and artistry help ensure that The Taming of the Shrew can be experienced in full by all audiences.
This resource has been developed to support sign language interpreters in preparing for interpreted performances of Shakespeare’s controversial comedy. The Taming of the Shrew sits at the intersection of farce, romance, and enduring debate about gender and power. Alongside playful disguises and rapid banter, the play includes coercion, humiliation, and a finale that can be stage4s as submission, satire, survival, or performance. Interpreting it will require strong theatrical awareness, linguistic dexterity, and thoughtful collaboration with Deaf consultants and the creative team.
The aim of this pack is to empower interpreters to deliver performances that are not only accurate and expressive, but also accessible, engaging, and aligned with the artistic vision of the production. It has been designed with the needs of Deaf audiences in mind and recognises the unique contribution that signed language brings to the storytelling process.
Inside, you’ll find:
A detailed breakdown of the plot, characters, and themes
Analysis of symbolic and poetic elements in the play
Guidance on role-shifting, visual storytelling, and performance interpreting strategies
Space to document team coordination, rehearsal notes, and your own reflective practice
Whether you’re preparing to interpret on-stage, off-stage, in feed roles, or in ensemble collaboration, this preparation pack offers a structured foundation to guide your work. It is intended to be a living document - something you can adapt, annotate, and make your own.
Thank you for your dedication to making Shakespeare’s work come alive through sign language. Your preparation, insight, and artistry help ensure that The Taming of the Shrew can be experienced in full by all audiences.
