Shakespeare and the body

About this course

The course examines how Shakespeare’s rhythm, timing, grammar and descriptive language can inform movement, characterisation and the emotional progression of a scene. Participants work with scenes, monologues and soliloquies while exploring physical approaches associated with Lecoq, Meisner, Michel Chekhov and Grotowski. Teaching combines warm-ups, games and guided physical exploration with solo, partner and small-group activities. The work considers how physical connection, tension and the stakes of a scene can shape communication and performance, rather than relying on a teacher-led imitation model.

What you'll learn

• Apply physical and textual techniques when approaching Shakespearean scenes and monologues
• Use movement to express a character’s emotional journey through Shakespearean text
• Develop awareness of how rhythm, timing and descriptive language influence performance
• Create physically vivid characters in Shakespearean and classical texts

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and does not require previous experience. It involves solo, partner and group work, with physical exploration and an openness to improvisational methods. Familiarity with acting or Shakespeare may be useful, but neither is required.

• Participation includes physical activity and movement-based exploration
• A Shakespeare monologue may be prepared in advance, although this is not required

Before you go

• Wear clean, comfortable clothing suitable for ease of movement, similar to gym clothing
• The course may include contact work with other participants, so good personal hygiene is required