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Suitable for
Intermediate, ages 18+
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Dates
Mon 15 – Fri 19 July 2024
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Tuition
Full-time, 09:30 – 17:00
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Location
Downside Road, Bristol
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Cost
£570
Overview
Booking has now closed for this course for 2024. To be the first to find out about future short courses, please join our mailing list.
On the Mastering Shakespeare course, you will enhance your mastery over the nuances of classical text. The five days of the course will take you through the principal elements of performing Shakespeare’s text, including language, vocal techniques, character psychology, physicality and movement. You will also engage in hands-on scene work, applying the techniques learned to present individual monologues as well as ensemble scenes. The course culminates in a final showcase to demonstrate your skills.
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School offers a fun and nurturing environment in which to pursue your creative ambitions. The support and feedback available from your tutor will help you develop your natural talents and confidence in performance.
ⓘ Book and save! Many of our short course students choose to book consecutive week-long courses to design their own unique summer programme. Book two acting courses for a 5% discount, three acting courses for a 10% discount, or all four acting courses for a 15% discount (saving £345). Find out more about Acting for Contemporary Theatre, Acting for Camera, and Acting for Motion Capture. Discounts are applied automatically at the checkout.
Key highlights
Day 1: Text analysis (Ali de Souza)
- Explore Shakespeare’s language nuances, including metre and linguistic subtleties.
- Dissect classical texts, examining language, structure, and themes.
- Master textual patterns through practical exercises.
- Develop techniques for authentic and compelling performances.
Day 2: Voice work for classical text (Carol Fairlamb)
- Refine vocal techniques for classical text, focusing on resonance, projection, and clarity.
- Explore voice’s role in conveying character depth and emotional nuances.
- Practice tailored vocal exercises to enhance classical text delivery.
Day 3: Scene study (Carol Fairlamb and Ali de Souza)
- Engage in intensive scene study, focusing on character dynamics and themes.
- Receive guidance from course leaders on character development and interpretation.
- Rehearse scenes with feedback, refining performances with peers.
Day 4: Scene refinement (Carol Fairlamb)
- Continue scene work, refining characterizations and emotional depth.
- Fine-tune vocal delivery to convey classical text subtleties.
- Address challenges and incorporate directorial feedback.
- Prepare scenes for the showcase, integrating discoveries and feedback.
Day 5: Showcase preparation and performance (Carol Fairlamb)
- Final scene rehearsals.
- Directorial feedback and guidance.
- Showcase performance to peers, family and friends.
Your tutors
Carol Fairlamb
Carol trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and has taught at several drama schools including Central, Drama Centre, LAMDA, ALRA, Italia Conti, Oxford School of Speech and Drama and ArtsEd. Carol was the Head of Voice at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School between 2012 and 2023.
In 2007, she spent a year as Resident Voice Coach for Sydney Theatre Company working with Robyn Nevin and Cate Blanchett. She has worked on productions in London including Riflemind directed by Philip Seymour Hoffman and a season at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre with Tim Sheader.
Ali de Souza
Ali joined Bristol Old Vic Theatre School as Director of Drama in spring 2023. He studied for an MA in Psychology at the University of Dundee before training as an actor at BOVTS, graduating in 1993. He also gained an MFA in Screen Practice and Directing at Queen Margaret University.
Ali has worked extensively as an actor and director in theatre and film for over thirty years with many companies including theatre babel, Brunton Theatre, Byre Theatre, Dundee Rep, Manchester Library, Perth Rep, TAG, Traverse and Visible Fictions.
He has a particular passion for Shakespeare, comedy, the Greeks, and acting for screen and radio. Prior to joining BOVTS, he was Associate Head of Acting at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
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Is this course for me?
This is an intermediate-level course. Whilst having completed our beginner-level course in Acting for Classical Text is beneficial, it’s not mandatory – we welcome individuals with a working knowledge of Shakespeare or other classical texts who are eager to explore and further their skills.
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What do I need to bring and what do I need to wear?
We advise you to wear comfortable clothing that you can move in easily. Please wear closed toe footwear appropriate for movement e.g. trainers. You do not need any equipment for this course, although you may find a pen and notebook useful.
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Admissions requirements
Applicants must be aged 18 or over by the time of the course start date.
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Short courses refund policy
If you wish to cancel your place on the course, you will receive a full refund only if you notify the school at least 7 days prior to the start of the course. For cancellations, contact [email protected].
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UWE Accommodation Offering
Students training on a BOVTS summer course between 6 July and 27 August 2024 are eligible to book discounted accommodation between those dates at UWE Bristol’s Purdown View. Prices range between £150 – £179 per week. Please email [email protected], for the attention of Louise Edwards, for further information.
- Policies and Procedures
