SHAKESPEARE IN THE CLASSROOM
One-Week Residency
5 sessions – 1 hour each
Two-Week Residency
10 sessions – 1 hour each
Extended Residency
6 to 10 sessions – 1 per week / 1 hour each
SHAKESPEARE AFTER SCHOOL
Mini Workshop (culminates in a thematic recital)
6 sessions – 90 minutes each
Maxi Workshop (culminates in a full production)
12-16 sessions – 90 minutes each
The above schedules are suggestions – we are happy to tailor any of the above programs to a format that will fit the demands of your schedule, and the needs of your students.
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Our Workshops offer participants a comprehensive exploration of one of William Shakespeare’s plays, and are in alignment with VAPA Content Standards for California Public Schools.
Activities include the following:
- a detailed introduction to the language and structure of Shakespeare, within the context of the chosen play
- a rigorous exploration of the themes of the chosen play, and how they relate to our lives today
- a creative environment, where the participants are encourages to use their voices, their bodies and their imaginations to express their experience with the chosen play.
- a presentation, where participants have the opportunity to share their work with their teachers, fellow students and families.
The following is an example of how a session might unfold:
Arrival – students are greeted by 2 (or more) teacher-directors from Los Angeles Drama Club
Circle Intros and Sharing – we check in, and set our intention for the session
Group Ice Breaker Exercises – we build trust and create a group dynamic
Physical Warm-up – we practice yoga and meditation to prepare our bodies and our
minds for the work
Vocal Warm-up – we learn to use our breath effectively, expand our vocal power, and
establish healthy use of our vocal instrument.
Exploration – we participate in one or more of the following group activities
Story – we participate in the re-counting of a Shakespeare Play.
Theme – we discuss and debate the topics in the story, and discover how those topics are relevant to our lives.
Language – we explore the rhythm and power of iambic pentameter, Shakespeare’s “Language of the Heart.”
Character – we use Improv, movement, walks, sound, and speech to create
characters.
Elements of Theatre – we become familiar with the language of theatre and with the basics of stagecraft
Scene Work – we divide to work on our specific pieces with the guidance of our teacher-directors.
Sharing the Process – we are given the opportunity to show our work to our peers.
Closing Circle – at the first class, we establish a ritual to end class each time with a feeling of accomplishment and community