Julie is a native user of BSL, having Deaf Parents. She has over 20 years’ experience interpreting live performances, from Glastonbury to Relaxed Proms at The Royal Albert Hall.
We’ve been working with Julie Doyle since 2018 to make opera accessible for d/Deaf people and are thrilled to be working with her again for our 2023/24 Shakespeare season.
Opera, with all its drama and emotive storytelling, lends itself perfectly to Julie’s BSL interpretation which focuses on the dramatic elements of the work.
Julie’s work starts with a film of our dress rehearsal and a copy of the libretto (the name for an opera script) to gain an understanding of the characters and plot.
Julie looks for nuances to help her derive meaning from the libretto, to shape her approach to the performance and to decide how BSL can work with the production.
Next, Julie will check for visual cues so she can find moments to pause her interpretation and allow audiences to enjoy the moment without distractions.
Finally, Julie will return to the libretto in more detail to understand the meaning behind the dialogue and finalise an appropriate translation into BSL which considers factors such as era and gender.
Julie will stand to one side of the stage and interpret the libretto used by the performers at the same time as the opera is being performed.
If Julie pauses, it’s to allow you to enjoy the action on stage without distraction.
A great place to start is to familiarise yourself with the story!
Programmes will also be available at the venue so you can find out more about the story, cast and creative team.
Tickets may be booked using Relay UK via a smartphone, tablet, computer or telephone. If you need assistance booking your tickets, or have any questions, email marketing@midwalesopera.co.uk
Only a few months ago we thought Mid Wales Opera was finished. Now, thanks to a funding lifeline from Powys County Council, we are within touching distance of having a sustainable plan to keep on producing live and local opera across Wales for at least three years.