A Practical Guide to Acting and Producing Spontaneous Shakespeare

Performing Shakespeare Unrehearsed: A Practical Guide to Acting and Producing Spontaneous Shakespeare

by Harriet Ann Jacobs

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2884 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	236 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	352 pages
Item Weight	:	1.14 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.3 x 0.79 x 9.45 inches

FREE

Shakespeare's plays are some of the most beloved and performed works in the world. But what if you could experience them in a whole new way? Spontaneous Shakespeare is a form of improvisational theater that allows actors to create Shakespearean performances on the spot, without any prior preparation.

This guide will provide you with the tools and techniques you need to create spontaneous Shakespearean performances that are both engaging and authentic. We'll cover everything from choosing the right play to rehearsing and performing.

Choosing the Right Play

The first step is to choose the right play. Not all of Shakespeare's plays are suitable for spontaneous performance. Some, like Hamlet and King Lear, are too long and complex. Others, like The Comedy of Errors and A Midsummer Night's Dream, are too farce-heavy.

A good play for spontaneous performance is one that is:

• Relatively short (no more than 90 minutes)
• Relatively simple in plot and character
• Full of action and dialogue

Some good choices for spontaneous Shakespeare include:

• The Taming of the Shrew
• Much Ado About Nothing
• As You Like It
• Twelfth Night
• The Tempest

Rehearsing

Once you've chosen your play, it's time to start rehearsing. The goal of rehearsal is to become familiar with the play's text and characters, and to develop the skills you need to perform spontaneously.

Here are a few tips for rehearsing spontaneous Shakespeare:

• Read the play aloud. This will help you to get a feel for the language and the rhythm of the verse.
• Break down the play into scenes. This will make it easier to learn and to memorize.
• Identify the key characters. What are their motivations? What are their relationships to each other?
• Practice improvising. Start by improvising short scenes from the play. As you get more comfortable, you can start improvising longer scenes.

Performing

The day of the performance, it's important to relax and have fun. The audience is there to see you create something unique and spontaneous. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. In fact, mistakes can be a great way to generate laughter and spontaneity.

Here are a few tips for performing spontaneous Shakespeare:

• Trust your instincts. Don't be afraid to go with whatever comes to mind.
• Listen to your fellow actors. They will help you to stay on track and to create a cohesive performance.
• Have fun! Spontaneous Shakespeare is all about having fun and creating something unique.

Spontaneous Shakespeare is a challenging but rewarding form of theater. It's a great way to learn more about Shakespeare's plays, to develop your acting skills, and to have some fun.

If you're interested in trying spontaneous Shakespeare, I encourage you to give it a try. You might just be surprised at what you can create.

Performing Shakespeare Unrehearsed: A Practical Guide to Acting and Producing Spontaneous Shakespeare

by Harriet Ann Jacobs

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2884 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	236 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Paperback	:	352 pages
Item Weight	:	1.14 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.3 x 0.79 x 9.45 inches

FREE