Translation of Swedish Drama for Stage Performance Grant Program

Swedish Drama is offering grants of up to SEK 20,000 to support the translation of Swedish theatre plays for international staging. The grant covers translation costs only and requires direct translation from Swedish or national minority languages. Eligible applicants include theatre producers or directors planning to stage Swedish plays abroad.

Overview

Swedish Drama is inviting applications to support the international reach of Swedish theatre through translation grants.

The programme aims to make Swedish plays accessible to global audiences by funding high-quality translations for productions staged outside Sweden.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant: SEK 20,000
• Funding type: Translation support only
• Disbursement: Reimbursement after proof of full translator payment

Important Conditions

• The translator must be paid in full by the applicant
• Grant is reimbursed only after payment confirmation
• Partial funding may be awarded based on costs

Programme Objectives

The grant aims to:

• Promote Swedish theatre internationally
• Support accurate and high-quality translations
• Encourage staging of Swedish plays abroad
• Preserve linguistic and cultural authenticity

What is Funded?

Eligible Costs

• Translation of Swedish plays into another language

Not Funded

• Adaptations or script modifications
• Production or staging costs
• Marketing or operational expenses

Key Concepts Explained

Direct Translation

Translation must be done directly from the original language (Swedish or minority language), ensuring accuracy and authenticity.

National Minority Languages of Sweden

Languages officially recognised in Sweden, including Sami, Finnish, Meänkieli, Romani Chib, and Yiddish.

Theatre Translation

The process of adapting a script linguistically while preserving its artistic and cultural meaning for performance.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Theatre directors
• Producers
• Theatre or production companies

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Plan to stage a Swedish play outside Sweden
• Demonstrate that the original work:
  • Was written in Swedish or a national minority language
  • Was originally published or performed in Sweden

Translation Requirement

• Must be translated directly from the original language
• Indirect translation (via another language) requires special approval from the rights holder

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Process

1. Select a Swedish Play
   • Ensure it meets origin and publication criteria
2. Hire a Translator
   • Ensure direct translation from the original language
3. Pay the Translator
   • Full payment must be completed before reimbursement
4. Prepare Application
   • Include project details and cost breakdown
5. Submit Application
   • Provide proof of translation and payment
6. Reimbursement Process
   • Grant is awarded after verification

Why This Grant Matters

• Expands global access to Swedish theatre
• Supports cultural exchange and artistic collaboration
• Encourages preservation of original language integrity
• Helps theatre companies reduce translation costs

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using indirect translation without approval
• Applying for production or staging costs
• Not paying the translator before reimbursement
• Choosing ineligible works not originally published in Sweden
• Incomplete documentation of costs or payment

Tips for a Strong Application

• Choose a culturally significant or impactful play
• Work with experienced translators
• Provide clear proof of eligibility and origin of the play
• Ensure accurate budgeting for translation costs
• Highlight international staging plans

FAQs

1. What is the maximum grant amount?

Up to SEK 20,000 per project.

2. What does the grant cover?

Only translation costs for Swedish theatre plays.

3. Who can apply?

Directors, producers, and theatre companies staging Swedish plays abroad.

4. Is indirect translation allowed?

Only with special approval if direct translation is not possible.

5. When is the grant paid?

After the translator has been fully paid and proof is submitted.

6. Are production costs eligible?

No, the grant does not cover staging or production expenses.

7. What languages qualify for the original play?

Swedish or Sweden’s recognised national minority languages.

Conclusion

The Swedish Drama Translation Grant provides essential support for bringing Swedish theatre to international audiences. By focusing on high-quality, direct translations, the programme ensures cultural authenticity while enabling theatre companies to expand their global reach.