Translation Slam

Co-presented by McNally Jackson and the Goethe Institut.

This is a free event, but registration is required.

The Translation Slam puts different translations of the same text side by side and invites the translators, authors, and audience members to join in a lively critical debate of how each version meets its creative challenges. New texts, previously untranslated into English, will be provided by authors Jenny Erpenbeck (Kairos) and Tahir Hamut Igzil (Waiting to Be Arrested at Night). Translating Erpenbeck’s work from German will be Geoffrey Howes and Ross Benjamin. Translating Igzil’s work from Uyghur will be Gulnigar Baham. 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, Elizabeth Lowe.

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 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center is a fully ADA accessible space.

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

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center, 208 West 13th Street, New York, United States