August Wilson's 'Jitney' has found a new home in Italy, where it is being translated and performed by a cast of Black Italian actors. This marks a significant moment in the world of theater, as Wilson's work, known for its exploration of Black American life, is now accessible to a global audience. The play, set in Pittsburgh's Hill District, tells the story of unlicensed cab drivers and the complex relationships between them, particularly focusing on the strained bond between a father and son. This translation and performance in Italy is a testament to the universal appeal of Wilson's themes and the power of his storytelling, which transcends cultural and linguistic barriers.
The journey of 'Jitney' to the Italian stage began with a chance encounter. Italian filmmaker Renzo Carbonera, during a visit to Pittsburgh, learned about Wilson's work from a local driver and later read the play. This sparked his interest in Wilson's plays and his desire to bring them to the Italian stage. Carbonera, in collaboration with the August Wilson House and other organizations, has made it possible for Wilson's work to be experienced by Italian audiences.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this production is the translation process. The Italian version of 'Jitney' does not attempt to replicate Wilson's unique dialect of Black American English. Instead, it aims to capture the spirit of the original while incorporating some Italian slang. This approach ensures that the play remains true to its cultural roots while also being accessible to Italian audiences. The word 'jitney' itself, which is a Pittsburgh term for unlicensed cabs, will be translated and projected on stage for non-Italian speakers.
The production's visual and auditory elements also offer a unique twist. The sets and costumes are minimalist and stylized, with a Pittsburgh-inspired color scheme of black and gold. This departure from the traditional naturalistic sets used in Wilson's plays adds a layer of artistic interpretation. The sound of the translated dialogue is another fascinating aspect, as it will be a departure from the original American accents.
The cast of 'Jitney' in Italy is diverse, featuring Black Italian actors who bring their own cultural perspectives to the roles. Actor Miguel Gobbo Diaz, who plays the central character of Becker, highlights the challenge of translating Black American culture to an Italian audience. He emphasizes that the Italian production is not a direct replication of the American original but rather a unique interpretation by Italian Black actors. This approach allows for a fresh and authentic portrayal of the play.
The impact of this translation and performance extends beyond the stage. It serves as a bridge between Black American culture and the Italian Black community. By bringing 'Jitney' to Italy, the production aims to create a dialogue and foster understanding between these two distinct cultures. Additionally, it challenges the notion that Black American culture is confined to the United States, demonstrating its relevance and resonance on a global scale.
The success of this Italian production could pave the way for further translations and performances of Wilson's work worldwide. It raises the possibility of August Wilson becoming a modern classic, accessible to audiences across different cultures and languages. As Terrence Spivey, artistic director of Powerful Long Ladder, suggests, Wilson's plays can be translated and performed just as successfully as those of Arthur Miller, further solidifying his place in the global theater canon.
