Romeo and Juliet in performance

In a series of ten acting workshops we will learn how to interpret the clues given to the actor by Shakespeare’s use of language, rich in imagery and wordplay. Romeo and Juliet is full of verbal exuberance and the lovers’ passion is expressed in dazzling poetry. Angry parents and hostile kinsmen likewise speak with violent energy, echoing the physical exchanges between the two warring families, the Capulets and the Montagues, on the streets of Verona.

Students should read the play before the course begins and must be willing to read aloud with fluency, clarity and with commitment to the demands of the language. 

Each class will start with a brief vocal and physical warm-up. For this group activity we will use Juliet’s speech which begins Act Three, Scene Two: “Gallop apace, you fiery-footed steeds”. The thirty-odd lines will be shared among the participants. Bring some familiarity with the speech to class. 

Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Shakespeare’s language supports the actor in performance and “letting the words do the work” is the approach in these workshops. 

Laptops should not be brought to class as they would not be used in a rehearsal room. Each student must bring their own copy of the play to every workshop, including the first one.