A number of sign language interpreters have hit the headlines in the past few years for their show-stealing performances at public events. It's thought that people take particular note of the interpreter because it's very unusual that they don't see on their screens too often.
The latest one comes from Australia. Mark Cave has been widely praised by deaf for his interpretation of Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. He is “doing so much for AUSLAN and understanding”, one Tweeter said of the 30-year-old. AUSLAN is Australian sign language, the UK equivalent is BSL. One pointed out that sign language is “a must for all emergency events”. Some users aren't fluent in English so can't benefit from words on the screen.
“Interpreters are seen on TV screens during emergencies like Cyclone Marcia or Superstorm Sandy because that's the best way for authorities to ensure that deaf people who use sign language get the message that everyone else is getting,” says Charlie Swinbourne, editor of deaf community.
Sign language, he says, is made up of not only hand movements, but body language and facial expressions too. Just as hearing people might modify the tone of their voice, Swinbourne says that interpreters have to be more animated than usual when translating information in emergency situations, to convey their seriousness.
People with no connection to the deaf community have described Cave's animated performance as “entertaining”, “poetic” and “interesting”, like a “ dancer”. Lou OMara loves the interpreter's facial expressions, saying that he should be on children's television show Play School.
Some people made it clear that their attention had been drawn to Cave, rather than the Queensland Premier. Cave says that while “it is always important to respect the speaker when interpreting a one-way event”, it is not something that is always in his mind. “In that very moment, I am concentrating on delivering the message”, he says.
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