Translating Together: Connecting Russian and English Cultures

This is a free event, but registration is required.

In the face of Russia’s war against Ukraine and crackdowns on free expression––in Russia, the United States, and around the world––language has become a victim. The vital power of poetry and translation is needed more than ever. That was the principle underlying PEN/Penn’s “Your Language My Ear” program, a two-year translation project that brought together poets and translators of contemporary Russian and American poetry. A panel consisting of poets, translators, literary scholars and experts, including Polina Barskova, Konstantin Shavlovsky, Lev Oborin and Kay Gabriel, will present the project and discuss the importance of translation in the times of increasing divide and uncertainty.

The 2024 PEN World Voices Festival, the 20th anniversary of the festival, will be a celebration of world literature and free expression. Over four days, over 100 writers from nearly 30 countries will be featured in engaging talks, panels, readings, and performances in New York City and greater Los Angeles.

Visit for more information about the entire festival, as well as PEN America.

The event is on the first floor of Deutsches Haus and can be made wheelchair accessible with the use of the venue's ramp. Please ask a Box Office Attendant or festival representative upon arrival for assistance.

ASL interpretation is available for this event by request only. Please reach out to our Box Office team at [email protected] by April 21st to request.

Please ask a Box Office Attendant or festival representative upon arrival for directions to accessible seating if preferred.

For further information on accessibility in this space, or to make a request, please contact [email protected]

While not required, per public health official guidelines, the World Voices Festival recommends being fully vaccinated, and wearing masks in all public indoor settings as a precaution against the spread of Covid-19, as well as around crowds.

If you are feeling unwell, please do not come to the event. Reach out to [email protected] for assistance if you have already purchased a ticket.

We thank you for ensuring our speakers, guests and venue workers feel safe and comfortable at all World Voices Festival events. If you have questions or concerns please contact [email protected]

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Deutsches Haus At New York University, 42 Washington Mews, New York, United States