August 14, 2012 - Acting Workshop- Shakesperean Play
Shakespeare In Depth:
Exploring "Much Ado About Nothing"
with Mark Lang and Alison Murphy
Tuesdays, July 31 and August 7 and 14
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Multipurpose Room
Ages 13+
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
Avalon property owners may register on June 30.
All others may register on July 14.
This workshop is designed to give participants a chance to focus on a single play. A slightly abridged script of Much Ado About Nothing will be used, focusing on featured scenes for reading and discussion. Lead roles will be rotated and the play will be divided into three parts, one for each class session.
FULL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
The SHAKESPEARE IN DEPTH: EXPLORING “MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING” workshop gives the participants a chance to focus on a single play. Shakespeare’s very first romantic comedy, “Much Ado” presents two compelling sets of would-be lovers: Claudio and Hero, whose wedding is thwarted by the evil Don John; as well as the witty and perfectly matched Beatrice and Benedick, who will do anything in their power to avoid falling in love. These two not only inspired the sparring Kate and Petruchio of “The Taming of the Shrew,” but also modern plays such as “Private Lives” and “The Philadelphia Story.”
We will read and discuss the entire play over the three classes, while focusing on featured scenes; giving ample time for reading, discussion and watching/listening to excerpts from previous productions. Discussion topics will include Shakespeare and his times, the history of the play, characters, notable productions and performances, and the use of language. The instructors, professional actors, will read along with the participants, and we will rotate different students into featured roles as time allows.
Our hope is that participants will be able to attend all three sessions, but all are welcome to attend as their schedule allows. The play has been divided into three parts, one for each class session, with a recap for students unable to attend earlier sessions.
“Much Ado About Nothing,” which was adapted into a popular film by Kenneth Branagh in the 1990s, is a delightful love story which ranges from broad comedy to the dramatic... a most worthy piece to explore in depth. No previous Shakespeare or acting experience required. Playscripts will be provided, or you may bring your own.
THE INSTRUCTORS:
Mark Lang and Alison Murphy are professional actors and teachers based in New York City who have worked extensively with the East Lynne Theater Company in Cape May, as well as with theaters in New York and across the country. Mr. Lang has performed with the National Shakespeare Company (3 tours); studied with John Barton and Anthony Naylor (of the Royal Shakespeare Co.), David Perry (RADA) and Paul Eiseman. His directing credits include “Othello” on 42nd Street in New York and O’Neill’s “Anna Christie” in New Jersey. Teaching and workshop clients include the Avalon Free Public Library (2008-2010), several years of the statewide and regional New Jersey Teen Arts Festivals, Columbia Business School, Executive Development Concepts, NYU School of Law and the Manager Development Course at General Electric in Crotonville, NY.
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