The Highway rat gets a Cornish Makeover: Animation Dubbed in Kernewek
The Highway Rat, a cherished children’s animation adapted from Julia Donaldson’s popular book, has been lovingly redubbed in the Cornish language, known as Kernewek. This initiative aims to preserve and promote the region’s unique linguistic heritage through engaging media.
A Christmas special Reimagined in Kernewek
Originally a BBC1 christmas special in 2017, The Highway Rat captivated audiences with its charming story and stellar voice acting. Now,thanks to a collaboration between Screen Cornwall and Magic Light Pictures,audiences can enjoy this family favorite in Kernewek.
Voices of Cornwall: The Team Behind The Dub
Edward Rowe, The Director and Actor involved in the Cornish adaptation, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the importance of providing children with opportunities to learn about Kernewek through animation. Rowe, known for his roles in Netflix’s The Witcher and The BAFTA-winning film Bait, considered it an “honor” to work alongside a talented local cast and crew.
Laura Giles of Screen cornwall emphasized the significance of making familiar content available in kernewek, celebrating the region’s acting and voice talent in high-quality animation.
Why Cornish? The Revival of Kernewek
The Cornish language, a Celtic language native to Cornwall, faced near extinction but has experienced a revival in recent years. Projects like the redubbing of “The Highway Rat” play a crucial role in its revitalization, making it accessible and appealing to younger generations.
Did You Know? According to a 2021 study by the Institute for Cornish Studies, the number of Cornish speakers has increased by 25% in the last decade? This highlights the growing interest and engagement with the language.
The Impact of Language Preservation Through Media
Preserving minority languages is vital for maintaining cultural diversity and heritage. By dubbing popular animations into languages like kernewek, it not only entertains but also educates and inspires a new generation of speakers.
| Feature | Original English Version | Cornish (Kernewek) Version |
|---|---|---|
| Language | English | Kernewek (Cornish) |
| release Date | 2017 | 2024 (Redubbed) |
| production | Magic Light Pictures | Magic Light Pictures & Screen cornwall |
| Notable Voices | David Tennant, Rob Brydon, Nina Sosanya | Cornish Cast (Specific names not yet widely publicized) |
The Broader Context: Language Preservation Efforts
The initiative to redub the Highway Rat aligns with broader efforts to support and preserve minority languages. In Wales,for example,similar projects have seen popular children’s programs dubbed into Welsh,reinforcing its presence in everyday life. These efforts demonstrate the power of media in language revitalisation.
Pro Tip: Explore local Cornish language classes or online resources to learn more about Kernewek and support its revival. Learning a few basic phrases can be a great way to connect with the culture!
Evergreen Insights: The Enduring Appeal of The Highway Rat
The Highway Rat continues to resonate with audiences due to its engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and worldwide themes. Julia Donaldson’s work, including The Gruffalo, has been translated into numerous languages, highlighting the global appeal of her stories.
Why This Matters Now: Cultural Identity and language
In an increasingly globalized world, maintaining cultural identity is more important than ever. Language is a cornerstone of culture, and initiatives like this help ensure that unique linguistic traditions are not lost.
What are your thoughts on the importance of preserving minority languages through media? How can communities further support these initiatives?
Frequently asked Questions About The highway Rat and the Cornish Language
- Why Was ‘The Highway Rat’ Dubbed In The Cornish Language?
To preserve and promote the Cornish language (Kernewek), making it more accessible to children and celebrating local culture.
- Who Was involved In Creating the Highway Rat Cornish Version?
Screen Cornwall collaborated with Magic Light Pictures to produce the Cornish language version.Edward Rowe directed and acted in the film with a talented Cornish cast and crew.
- What Is The Significance Of Dubbing Animation In Kernewek?
It helps ensure that the language remains vibrant and relevant, appealing to younger generations and supporting its revival.
- How Can I Learn More About The Cornish Language After Watching ‘The Highway Rat’?
explore online resources, attend local classes, or visit cultural centers in Cornwall. Many resources are available for beginners.
Did this article spark your interest in language preservation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
