August Wilson's 'Jitney' is a powerful exploration of the human condition, and its international reach is a testament to the universality of his themes. The Italian translation of the play, set to tour the United States, offers a unique perspective on Wilson's work, highlighting the importance of cultural adaptation and the power of storytelling across borders.
The Italian version of 'Jitney' is a fascinating project, sparked by a chance encounter between Italian filmmaker Renzo Carbonera and a Black driver in Pittsburgh. This encounter led Carbonera to discover Wilson's work and ultimately to produce the first-ever all-Black stage production of 'Jitney' in Italy. The translation, by Angela Soldà, aims to honor the spirit of the original while incorporating some Italian slang, creating a distinct and authentic Italian interpretation.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this production is the departure from traditional Wilsonian aesthetics. The sets and costumes are minimalist and stylized, with a Pittsburgh-centric color scheme of black and gold, and even video projections. This new visual language adds a layer of artistic interpretation to the play, challenging the familiar naturalistic sets that have been a hallmark of Wilson's work.
The cast of the Italian 'Jitney' is a diverse group of Black Italian actors, including Miguel Gobbo Diaz, who plays the central role of Becker. Gobbo Diaz, who was born in the Dominican Republic and moved to Italy at age 3, brings a unique perspective to the role, reflecting the Black experience in Italy, which is very different from that of the United States. The play's themes of father-son relationships, love, and jealousy remain universal, but the cultural context adds a layer of complexity and richness.
The success of the Italian translation of 'Jitney' lies in its ability to create a bridge between cultures. By presenting Wilson's work in a new context, it opens up a dialogue about the Black experience in Italy and the potential for cultural exchange. As Terrence Spivey, artistic director of Powerful Long Ladder, suggests, Wilson's work can be a modern classic, and this translation is a step towards that goal.
In conclusion, the Italian version of 'Jitney' is a testament to the power of storytelling and cultural adaptation. It offers a fresh perspective on Wilson's work, challenging audiences to think about the universality of his themes and the importance of embracing diverse cultural interpretations. As the play tours the United States, it will undoubtedly spark conversations and inspire new ways of understanding and appreciating Wilson's timeless contributions to American theater.
