Rewriting Narratives in Egyptian Theatre: Translation, Performance, Politics

This study explores the representations of Egypt in theatrical means from the 19th century to the present day, focusing on the ways theatre texts and performances change when crossing borders between different worlds. It draws on concepts from Theatre and Performance Studies, Translation Studies, Cultural Studies, Postcolonial Studies, and Diaspora Studies to understand the different fields. Essays consider how rewritings and performances cross borders from one culture, nation, country, and language to another, and the process of rewriting, the resulting representations of foreign plays on stage, and representations of the Egyptian revolution on stage and in Tahrir Square.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive study delves into the rich tapestry of Egyptian theatre, exploring the intricate ways in which representations of Egypt are crafted and conveyed through theatrical means. Spanning from the 19th century to the present day, the essays present a profound exploration of the narratives that shape theatrical, textual, and performative representations, while also examining the diverse ways in which the rewriting process has evolved across different contexts and eras. Drawing upon a diverse range of concepts from Theatre and Performance Studies, Translation Studies, Cultural Studies, Postcolonial Studies, and Diaspora Studies, scholars and practitioners from Egypt and the West engage in a lively dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding of the multifaceted fields involved.

The central focus of the articles lies in examining the transformative effects of theatre texts and performances when traversing borders between diverse worlds. The concept of rewriting encompasses translation, transformation, and reconstruction, recognizing the multifaceted boundaries that exist within cultural, national, linguistic, and even everyday contexts. The essays delve into the intricate processes of rewriting, exploring how these processes shape the representations of foreign plays on stage and the powerful representations of the Egyptian revolution that unfolded both on stage and in the heart of Tahrir Square.

By undertaking this assessment of the relationship between theatre practices, exchanges, and rewritings in Egyptian theatre, this study provides valuable insights into an understudied realm. It not only contributes to our understanding of theatre translation but also has broader implications for the field of theatre studies as a whole. The insights gained from this research will undoubtedly resonate with scholars and practitioners engaged in the exploration of cultural representations, translation processes, and the dynamics of performance across different contexts.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032340012