Playing Shakespeare

• E1

  The Two Traditions

  Contrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.

  1984-07-29 · 30m
  Mark watched
• E2

  Using the Verse

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

  1984-08-05 · 30m
  Mark watched
• E3

  Language and Character

  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.

  1984-08-12 · 30m
  Mark watched
• E4

  Speeches and Soliloquies

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

  1984-08-19 · 30m
  Mark watched
• E5

  Irony and Ambiguity

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

  1984-08-26 · 30m
  Mark watched
• E6

  Passion and Coolness

  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.

  1984-09-02 · 30m
  Mark watched
• E7

  Rehearsing the Text

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

  1984-09-09 · 30m
  Mark watched
• E8

  Exploring a Character

  No description.

  1984-09-16 · 30m
  Mark watched
• E9

  Poetry and Hidden Poetry

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

  1984-09-23 · 30m
  Mark watched

Top cast

Lisa Harrow

Sinéad Cusack

John Barton

Patrick Stewart

Richard Pasco

Barbara Leigh-Hunt

Alan Howard

Norman Rodway

Donald Sinden

Peggy Ashcroft

Ben Kingsley

Tony Church