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Ulster Scots “Godot” Premiere Marks a “Coming of Age” for Minority Language
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A groundbreaking production of Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot in Ulster Scots is poised to redefine the play’s linguistic landscape and signal a pivotal moment for the minority language. The world premiere, scheduled for Good Friday, April 3, 2026, will unfold across a challenging 3km trek to a remote location on the Antrim Plateau in Northern Ireland, immersing audiences in the play’s existential themes.
A New Linguistic Mantle for a Classic
The production, spearheaded by festival organizer Arts over Borders as part of the inaugural Samuel Beckett Biennale, represents a deliberate departure from the recent trend of “celebrity Godots,” featuring high-profile actors like Keanu Reeves, Patrick Stewart, and Ian McKellen. Instead, the focus shifts to the power of language and place. According to a festival representative, the choice to stage Godot in Ulster Scots – also known as Ullans – is a “coming of age” moment, demonstrating the language’s capacity to handle complex dramatic works.
The setting itself, described as an “existential landscape of heath, moss and bog” in County Antrim, is considered notably fitting, given the script’s “exterior references.” The outdoor location is intended to foster empathy with the characters’ physical struggles, mirroring Estragon’s difficulty removing his boots.
The Forceful Sound of Ullans
What distinguishes this production is not simply the translation, but the delivery. A key organizer emphasized that the “forceful pronunciation and sound” of Ulster Scots,spoken in the region,will “bring a whole new total register” to the play,fundamentally altering its performative aspect.The working title, Ettlin Fur Godot, reflects this linguistic shift, with even the iconic stage directions transformed: “A country road. A tree. Evening” becomes “A loanen. A tree. Dailygan.”
The timing of this premiere is significant. In October, northern Ireland appointed a commissioner for Ulster-Scots under the Identity and Language Act, solidifying efforts to safeguard the language, which traces its roots to 17th-century Scottish settlements. This production is seen as a powerful affirmation of the language’s vitality.
A Language “Discovering Itself”
frank Ferguson, the translator and research director at Ulster University’s Center for Irish and Scottish Studies, views Ulster Scots not as a dialect, but as a distinct language “discovering itself” in the wake of the Good Friday agreement. He believes the play’s themes of waiting,hoping,and longing resonate deeply with the aspirations of minority languages seeking recognition and revitalization.”All minority languages are longing for that sort of moment of salvation, that moment of revelation,” Ferguson stated.
Audiences may require translations to fully grasp the nuances of Ulster Scots, but Ferguson anticipates they will develop an ear for the language, which shares many roots with English.
Beyond 2026: A Biennale of Experimentation
the Beckett Biennale, extending over the next decade, promises further experimentation with translations into languages like aboriginal Noongar, Sami, and Inuit. Productions featuring homeless actors are also planned, challenging conventional theatrical boundaries. Arts Over Borders aims to return Godot to its origins – its initial performances in French in Paris in 1953, followed by London and dublin in 1955 – while concurrently forging new paths.
The biennale’s organizers acknowledge the effectiveness of celebrity-driven productions in attracting audiences, but believe these can overshadow deeper artistic explorations. They are committed to prioritizing diverse perspectives and innovative approaches. The Samuel Beckett Biennale will unfold across rural and urban settings in Northern Ireland, the Republic of ireland, and England, with a return planned for 2028.
Key Themes – The article centers around the themes of linguistic revitalization,the power of language,and the exploration of existentialism through a unique theatrical production.
Production Details – The production of Waiting for Godot in Ulster Scots will premiere on Good Friday,April 3,2026,on the Antrim Plateau in Northern Ireland,requiring audiences to trek 3km to the remote location.
ulster Scots (Ullans) – the staging of Godot in Ulster Scots is considered a “coming of age” moment for the language, demonstrating its ability to handle complex dramatic works and affirming its vitality.
The Biennale – the Samuel Beckett Biennale, spanning a decade, will feature translations of Godot into various languages (Aboriginal Noongar, Sami, Inuit) and unconventional casting choices (homeless actors).
**Frank Ferguson’
