Hello Language Lovers! In this episode of Speaking Tongues, we are thrilled to welcome Mikhl Yashinsky, a Yiddish playwright, performer, translator, and teacher currently based in New York City. Born in Detroit, Mikhl's connection to the Yiddish language runs deep, rooted in the heritage passed down from his grandparents. Mikhl shares his experiences as a Yiddishist and how this shaped his passion for the language and its artistic expression.
We explore the nuances of Yiddish, its historical significance, and its evolution over time, particularly in the context of the modern world. Mikhll sheds light on his work in Yiddish theater, including his involvement in the acclaimed Yiddish production of Fiddler on the Roof, and the unique challenges and joys of performing in a language that many consider a relic of the past.
In this episode, we discuss:
The impact of growing up with Yiddish-speaking grandparents and how it influenced Mikhl's identity.
The importance of language activism in preserving Yiddish as a living language.
The cultural significance of Yiddish theater in New York City and its role in the Jewish experience.
Insights into Mikhl’s recent translations, including the "Adventures of Max Spitzkopf: The Yiddish Sherlock Holmes." and "The Mother of Yiddish Theatre: Memoirs of Ester-Rokhl Kaminska"
The modern adaptations of Yiddish stories and the potential for new Yiddish works in contemporary media.
Words you hear every day in English that you never knew came from Yiddish!
A big thank you to Mikhl for sharing your insights, stories, and passion for Yiddish language and arts. If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don’t forget to check out my food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below!
To Connect with Mikhl:
Website: yashinsky.com
Instagram: @mikhldarling
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