| Shakespeare Workshops in Schools | ||||
| Our
workshops are designed to bring a fresh perspective to the teaching of
the curriculum. The text is always regarded as a piece of living drama,
something to be performed, not just read.
Students are encouraged to actively take part in performing, directing and analysing text. Our hands-on approach means that we can tailor each workshop to the specific needs of any particular group of students. Workshops are relaxed but challenging and encourage students to explore new ways of thinking. |
Workshop Structure Workshops last two hours. The plot is discussed and events put into order. Themes, language and character are explored through group activities and exercises. Actors perform key extracts from the play. Students discuss these performances and are invited to re-direct the scenes. Students are encouraged to contemporise Shakespeare's characters and their lives, through discussion and performance. |
Learning Points Plot Shakespeare was telling exciting tales: the action-packed blockbusters of his day. Themes Each play has central themes which are introduced, revisited and developed. Language and Character Shakespeare uses different forms of language (Iambic Pentameter, prose etc) to help us understand the differences between characters and their states of mind. Imagery is also used to develop characters and themes. Thoughts become speeches which in turn drive the action forward. Context Shakespeare often up-dated old stories for his plays, giving them historical and social relevance to his contemporary audience. Many of these stories are universal and similar plot lines can be seen in today's popular culture. |
||
|
REQUIREMENTS Numbers: Up to 35. Age: Year 7 upwards. Set-Up Time: 30 minutes. Running Time: 2 hours. Location: School hall or large classroom. Space must be cleared. |
||||