Translator-becoming: a wayfaring journey to bringing Philadelphia, Here I Come! to the Chinese stage

This thesis explores the translation process, the development of the translated play and its interaction within the context of theatre practice, emphasizing translation as an evolving and dynamic process rather than a product. The emphasis of ‘process’ in this thesis aligns with the theoretical frameworks of Tim Ingold’s concept of ‘wayfaring’ and Actor-Network Theory, specifically TranslationANT, to analyse the evolving associations between human and non-human actors during the rehearsing process.

The results of this research include three translated versions of the play, and the subsequent adaptation of the third version during rehearsals and performances in Shanghai. The findings suggest that the development of the text and the translator’s growth are deeply interconnected and influenced by the collaborative nature of theatre practice. This thesis contributes to the field of theatre translation by providing insights into the practical challenges and creative possibilities of introducing an Irish play to the Chinese audience.<br><br><i>Thesis is embargoed until 31st July 2030</i>.<br>