
Playing Shakespeare
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
29-07-198430mContrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.
- Ep 2
2.Using the Verse
05-08-198430mJohn 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
12-08-198430mJohn 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
19-08-198430mJohn 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
26-08-198430mJohn 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
02-09-198430mHamlet'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
09-09-198430mJohn 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
23-09-198430mThe bard's unparalleled poetry is celebrated and examined in its glory.
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