Translation Slam

This is a free event, but registration is required.

The Translation Slam presents different translations of the same text side by side and invites the translators, the author, and the audience to join in a lively critical debate about how each version meets its creative challenges. A new text, previously untranslated into English, will be provided by Japanese author Keiichiro Hirano (Eclipse, tr. Brent de Chene and Charles De Wolf). Translating Hirano’s work from the Japanese will be translators Madison Shimoda and Kyra Benjamin. Translations will vie for audience approval, and the event will end with a brief Q&A. Hosting the Slam will be PEN America Translation Committee member Annelise Finegan.

The 2026 PEN World Voices Festival is a celebration of world literature and free expression. The 2026 edition will be the 21st World Voices Festival. Over four days, over 120 writers from over 40 countries will be featured in 40 engaging talks, panels, readings, and activations in New York City and greater Los Angeles.

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

This space is ADA compliant. An elevator is onsite that goes to the event space.

ASL interpretation is available for this event by request only. Please reach out to our Box Office team at [email protected] by April 15th to request.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

AIA New York | Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place, New York, United States

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