Skill Development Through Classical Theatre

An intensive 15-day exploration of the acting skills required in bringing to life the complex texts of the English Classical Theatre. Students work in a group with a professional director on plays from three eras of classical theatre. This course is an invaluable extension of the RADA Summer School.

COURSE DETAILS

The course is aimed at experienced amateur actors who want to further their acting skills in the three main areas of Classical Theatre. Those who have had some previous training or experience and wish to refresh their skills.

OVERVIEW OF THE COURSE

Students will work in a group of 14 under the guidance of a professional director who specialises in classical theatre.

Week one, students focus on a Shakespeare play. Week two, students focus on a Jacobean/Caroline tragedy. In week three, students focus on a Restoration Comedy.

There are classes in voice and speech, movement, sword fighting, and period dance. Tutors are drawn from the Academy’s senior staff and distinguished directors from the profession. A certificate, stating the minimum number of contact hours, is awarded on successful completion of the course.

HOURS OF WORK

Classes generally take place between 10am and 6pm from Tuesday to Saturday, Week One; then from Monday to Friday during Weeks Two and Three. The classes are not optional: you are expected to treat these as professional rehearsal calls. Punctuality is essential; records are kept of class attendance and are taken into account when the RADA certificate is issued at the end of the course.

WHAT TO BRING

• A fully-prepared monologue from Shakespeare, no longer than two minutes in length, and which you will be called upon to perform for the director and other members of the group.

• A copy of The Complete Works of Shakespeare.

• Clothing suitable for movement classes.

• Female students will need to bring a full-length practice skirt for rehearsal.

• Male students will need to have one pair of formal trousers (not jeans) and one pair of formal shoes (not trainers).

• You will need to have read the plays you will be working on during the three weeks these will be sent to you prior to the start of the course.