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Do you hear the people sing… in English? Translating Les Miz with nuance and panache
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Apr 72024
Join us as we embark on a fascinating journey through the iconic lyrics of Les Misérables, translated by the legendary Herbert Kretzmer. Discover the profound impact of his English translations on this world-renowned musical, and how some songs even inspired their retranslation back into French to capture the essence of Kretzmer's adaptations. Through a detailed analysis of three beloved songs - “Castle on a Cloud,” “I Dreamed a Dream,” and “Do You Hear the People Sing” - we'll uncover the artistry behind Kretzmer’s choices, from the playful ABBA rhyme schemes to the vivid, poetic language that has captivated audiences globally. Learn about the original French versions, Kretzmer's transformation of these songs into English masterpieces, and their subsequent French reinterpretations, showcasing a unique blend of cultural exchange and artistic innovation. Whether you're a fan of Les Misérables, a language enthusiast, or simply intrigued by the power of translation, this video offers a deep dive into the genius of Herbert Kretzmer and the timeless appeal of one of the greatest musicals ever staged. Don’t miss this exploration of how translation can transcend language barriers and touch hearts worldwide. David Benkof, the Broadway Maven, has been teaching Broadway and American Jewish Culture online for more than four years. He aims to help students see the third time things they did not notice the first. His love for Broadway is triply expressed: his classes; his Youtube Channel; and MARQUEE: The Broadway Maven's Weekly Blast substack newsletter. For more information, visit TheBroadwayMaven.com #Broadway #musicaltheatre #LesMiz For more information about The Broadway Maven and its classes, videos, and MARQUEE, visit TheBroadwayMaven.com. MARQUEE has two plans: the FREE plan includes one article per week and one full issue per month. The Premium plan includes all articles and issues and is $5/month or $36/year. To sign up for the Weekly Blast, visit https://thebroadwaymaven.substack.com/

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The Broadway Maven

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