Hairspray Gets Subtitles

Published on 27 November 2009 by Nathan Brooker

A new device translates stage show into eight different languages.

Tested out on a production of Hairspray at the Shaftesbury Theatre, the new system consists of small, wireless screens that enable the audience to read live subtitles.

The new system provides subtitles in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese and Chinese. So that the words on the screen are always in time with the action on stage, the speed of the translation is controlled by different stage prompts.

Traditionally, translations of theatre performances appear on screens to the side the stage. These screens usually only translate the action into one language though, and can often distract audience members that don't require them.

Speaking for Show Translation, the company who provide the system, Alexander Vegh told the BBC: "What we wanted to deliver was a solution that can provide multiple simultaneous translations at any theatre on an individual basis, including for those who are deaf or hearing impaired."

A hit with audience members after the test production, a spokesperson for the Shaftesbury Theatre, James Williams, said the new system was "simple yet effective".