CineScope

Playing Shakespeare

Playing Shakespeare Poster

John Barton holds a master class in how to play Shakespeare, using members of the RSC doing scenes, sonnets, and commentary as prime examples.

Documentary

5.0 / 5

29th July 1984 - 23rd September 1984
Director
John Carlaw
Writer
John Barton
Top Cast
Lisa HarrowSinéad CusackJohn Barton
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The Two Traditions Still
The Two Traditions
29th July 1984

Episode 1

Contrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.

Using the Verse Still
Using the Verse
5th August 1984

Episode 2

John Barton and company examine blank verse. Its strengths and particularities are discussed in great detail. Members of the cast try out various readings.

Language and Character Still
Language and Character
12th August 1984

Episode 3

John Barton and the cast discuss how Shakespeare defines his character by the language they speak, and how the characters attempt to achieve their aims by means of what they say and how they say it.

Speeches and Soliloquies Still
Speeches and Soliloquies
19th August 1984

Episode 4

John Barton and members of the RSC present a workshop on how Shakespeare used the soliloquy to directly connect the character with the audience.

Irony and Ambiguity Still
Irony and Ambiguity
26th August 1984

Episode 5

John Barton and the RSC actors consider the subtle shadings produced by irony, ambiguity and sarcasm, and how best to express them.

Passion and Coolness Still
Passion and Coolness
2nd September 1984

Episode 6

Hamlet's advice to the players is the best-known acting instruction in theatrical history. John Barton and the RSC actors explore this essential mandate to be both natural and intellectual.

Rehearsing the Text Still
Rehearsing the Text
9th September 1984

Episode 7

John Barton and the actors analyze a scene from Twelfth Night, identifying pointers towards character and staging.

Exploring a Character Still
Exploring a Character
16th September 1984

Episode 8

No overview available.

Poetry and Hidden Poetry Still
Poetry and Hidden Poetry
23rd September 1984

Episode 9

The bard's unparalleled poetry is celebrated and examined in its glory.