Acting

Online Masterclass: Shakespeare for the Modern Actor

Key Information
  • Suitable for

    All skill levels, age 18+
  • Date

    Sunday 19 July 2026
  • Time

    Day course, 14:00–17:00 GMT
  • Cost

    £45
  • Location

    Online
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Overview

Designed for actors wishing to explore the world of Shakespeare, this online session focuses on mastering clarity, emotional depth, and inventive interpretation through classical text.

Through the session we shall explore the Subtext and emotional nuance in classical text, and explore the tools to deliver Shakespeare naturally and dynamically through integrating classical techniques with contemporary sensibility.

Course Highlights

  • Deepening verse work and iambic pentameter understanding
  • Subtext and emotional nuance in classical text
  • Balancing textual fidelity with modern audience engagement
  • Scene and monologue work with peer group.
Headshot of Head of Voice

Course Leader

Carol Fairlamb has been a voice coach for 30 years. Trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, she spent a decade as Head of Voice at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. She has also been Resident Voice Coach for Sydney Theatre Company.

Theatre

Productions include Blackbird, Love Lies Bleeding, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Tales from the Vienna Woods and Don’s Party for Sydney Theatre Company; Riflemind for Sydney Theatre Company and Trafalgar Studios; Romeo and Juliet, Twelfth Night and A Midsummer Night’s Dream for Regent’s Park; Touching the Void at Bristol Old Vic; and Dr Semmelweis at the Harold Pinter.

  • Is this course for me?

    This course is an overview of how to develop a character. This is useful for those auditioning for drama school as well as anyone in the industry.
  • What do I need to bring?

    As an online course you will need a laptop or computer with a strong internet connection and access to Google Meet. You will be sent a link to log in to your session seven days in advance.

    Each participant must have purchased a ticket to the course. Whilst you are taking part, please ensure that no one else is sitting in on the course. No recording of this course is permitted at any time.
  • Admission requirements

    Applicants must be aged 18 or over by the time of the course start date.
  • Short Courses Refund Policy

    If you wish to cancel your place on the course, you will receive a full refund if you notify the school at least 7 days prior to the start of the course. For cancellations, contact [email protected]
  • Short Course Cancellation Policy

    We will make all reasonable efforts to deliver a short course as outlined on our site and in any brochure or published material. However, we reserve the right to cancel a short course in case of events outside our control or if the course fails to meet a minimum number of participants. In the event that we cancel a course, we will inform participants who have booked a place via email at least 7 days prior to the start date. We will also provide a full refund of the course fee paid. Bristol Old Vic Theatre School cannot be held responsible for any expenses you incur due to such a cancellation.
  • Policies and Procedures