Truth in Translation

Truth in Translation is a stage play by Michael Lessac (1940-), with music by Hugh Masekela (1939-2018).

The original text

Conceived and written by Lessac and Tom Tammi [1], the work is based on research relating to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission with specific focus on the role of translators of statements made to the Commission. In 2003 Lessac interviewed the translators. The interviews and the rest of the project were filmed and was to be released as a documentary film. Rehearsals began as workshops with the actors and musicians.

The play was to tour to Belfast, Kosovo, Jerusalem and Sweden. Was on the Edinburgh Fringe.

Performance history in South Africa

2006: Produced at the Market Theatre by Yvette Hardie, directed by Michael Lessac, with a cast that included Andrew Buckland (Marcel), Thembi Mtshali-Jones (Nobuhle), Quanita Adams (Alia), Jenny Stead (Claire), Robert Koen (Gideon), Jeroen Kranenburg (Rudi), Sandile Matsheni (Jake), Nick Boraine (Peter), Fana Mokoena (Thabo), Bongani Gumede (Nhlanhla), Sibulele Gcilitshana (Nomawethu), Ellis Pearson, Bheki Mkhwane, Lwazi “Zorro” Xaba, Hugh Masebenza, Celeste Matthews, Mmabatho Mogomotsi and Lerato Moloi. Music composed by Hugh Masekela.

2007: Performed at the Baxter Theatre.

Sources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truth_in_Translation

http://www.truthintranslation.org/

Die Burger, 16 November 2005

Cape Times, 21 Feb 2006

Ruphin Coudyzer. 2023. Annotated list of his photographs of Market Theatre productions. (Provided by Coudyzer)

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