Playing Shakespeare
TV ShowEnded

Playing Shakespeare

10.0 / 10
1984
1 season
9 episodes
Documentary

John Barton holds a master class in how to play Shakespeare, using members of the RSC doing scenes, sonnets, and commentary as prime examples.

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Cast

Seasons

  • Ep 1

    1.The Two Traditions

    29-07-198430m

    Contrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.

  • Ep 2

    2.Using the Verse

    05-08-198430m

    John Barton and company examine blank verse. Its strengths and particularities are discussed in great detail. Members of the cast try out various readings.

  • Ep 3

    3.Language and Character

    12-08-198430m

    John Barton and the cast discuss how Shakespeare defines his character by the language they speak, and how the characters attempt to achieve their aims by means of what they say an...

  • Ep 4

    4.Speeches and Soliloquies

    19-08-198430m

    John Barton and members of the RSC present a workshop on how Shakespeare used the soliloquy to directly connect the character with the audience.

  • Ep 5

    5.Irony and Ambiguity

    26-08-198430m

    John Barton and the RSC actors consider the subtle shadings produced by irony, ambiguity and sarcasm, and how best to express them.

  • Ep 6

    6.Passion and Coolness

    02-09-198430m

    Hamlet's advice to the players is the best-known acting instruction in theatrical history. John Barton and the RSC actors explore this essential mandate to be both natural and inte...

  • Ep 7

    7.Rehearsing the Text

    09-09-198430m

    John Barton and the actors analyze a scene from Twelfth Night, identifying pointers towards character and staging.

  • Ep 8

    8.Exploring a Character

    16-09-198430m
  • Ep 9

    9.Poetry and Hidden Poetry

    23-09-198430m

    The bard's unparalleled poetry is celebrated and examined in its glory.

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