Friday Workshops – October 12, 2012

Choose one half-day course on this day.

MORNING WORKSHOPS

Choose ONE of the following courses. Workshops begin at 9 a.m.

“It Is, It Is a Glorious Thing… To Be a Pirate King!”: How to Write and Perform a Gilbert and Sullivan Patter Song

How did Gilbert and Sullivan create those impossible-to-sing-butdelightful- to-hear patter songs? Find out here! Write and perform your own impossible-to-sing patter song using some of the same musical and literary devices perfected by Gilbert and Sullivan. Led by Stephen DiMenna and Paul Shilton.

Interpreting Shakespeare

Why does Shakespeare use both verse and prose? How open is Shakespeare to interpretation? These and other questions will be explored in this lively and information-packed workshop. Discover the clues and cues that Shakespeare wrote into his texts and apply your new-found knowledge to a short scene. Later, Festival company members walk you through their process of analyzing and understanding the scene and characters. See where your thoughts, understanding and ideas line up – and where your interpretations diverge!

Building an Ensemble

Come ready to move as we explore theatre games and exercises that promote the building of ensemble within your acting troupe or class. This workshop, led by Resident Teaching Artist, Edward Daranyi, will begin the creation of synergy in the group dynamic and build trust to create a more inclusive atmosphere in your rehearsal hall and classroom.

Shuffle Off to Buffalo

Have you ever dreamt of being part of a chorus line of tappers in a big musical? Join Festival company member Rachel Crowther for a fun basic tap-dancing lesson. Learn some basic steps and release your inner Peggy Sawyer! (Don’t worry, tap shoes aren’t required.)

Archives and Exhibition Tour

Spend an hour touring one of the world’s largest performing arts archives with Stratford Shakespeare Festival Archives staff, and then head downtown for a tour of the new Festival Exhibition, “Most Rare Visions: 60 Years of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival.” On these tours you’ll see a recreation of the backstage of the original Festival tent and many unique artifacts from the Festival’s 60 years.