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Subject Advice

Shakespeare

Contact the Adviser - Shakespeare

Hello! My name is Moyra Summers. I’ve loved Shakespeare since dancing round a ‘cauldron’ in junior school reciting ‘Double, double toil and trouble’ (Macbeth). That was good teaching - we were involved. In secondary school, no such luck; we learned about Shakespeare by reading round the class and being instructed; there was no discussion. Inevitably, I switched off at this point. I hope you were luckier than me – but I don’t think I’m the only one. Later in further education college, I rediscovered Shakespeare, thank goodness. My first visit to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre was with my mum as a teenager to see Twelfth Night. Wonderful – thanks Mum! Over the years, along with a love of other playwrights, Shakespeare has become a significant part of my life. As a teacher in special education responsible for art and music, I didn’t get much chance to explore Shakespeare but continued seeing the plays whenever possible. In later years, I graduated (2.1 Hons) in Literature with the Open University, and part of the study was on Shakespeare. Hard work – but what a joy! Now, as a u3a group leader, I feel the same!

The RSC have a quote from a young person on their education page:  "

"It might sound strange but it has changed me. I didn’t like coming to school and being told what was right and wrong. I know it’s only Shakespeare but we came in the room and they said you can read this text and have your own opinions – it was really good, really different."

This applies at all ages. Shakespeare study can be either academic or just a love of his plays and going to see them in the theatre. Probably your group will come somewhere between the two, and, knowing your group, you will need to find the right starting point, the right balance, and the level at which to pitch your approach.   

My predecessor, as group leader, had a three-point credo: start it now (it’s never too late), engage with the text as actively as possible, and see it live. I continue this philosophy, in particular, the third point; this is so important! My main aim is to try to make the plays accessible and enjoyable.


Starting a group 

In starting a Shakespeare group, you may want to consider a couple of general sessions dealing with his life, background etc before you start thinking about individual plays. If possible, do a theatre visit to see the play you’re studying.

You may already have decided on how to study the plays; if not, I can chat through my way of doing this and discuss possible ways for you. There is, of course, no right or wrong way. I use audio performances and close reading of the text, interspersed with PowerPoint presentations and film clips of productions - and discussion in the sessions is always welcomed. And don’t forget – a sense of humour is essential in creating a relaxed and non-threatening atmosphere.

Shakespeare has been performed and studied for over 400 years, so it’s not surprising that there are many approaches, and the knowledge and enthusiasms of the group leader are paramount.

You could add into the mix, theatre visits with a talk from the company and explore local connections to Shakespeare. Depending on the feelings of your group, you might also want to try a session or two on the sonnets. And, every so often, depending on the availability of technology, you might like to show a film of a production.

As a Shakespeare enthusiast (I’m no expert), I continue to learn all the time. Whenever we study a play, group discussion always throws up new ways of looking at it. So, as the group members learn, so do I!

Please contact me if you are thinking of setting up a group and would like to chat.


Additional information and links 

Regular free screenings are available through the RSC and National Theatre 

Teaching and Learning resources from the RSC: https://www.rsc.org.uk/education/about-rsc-education/home-learning-with-the-rsc 

Future Learn have some good courses on the life and works of Shakespeare:https://www.futurelearn.com/ 

Shakespeare Birthplace Trust tours:https://www.shakespeare.org.uk/visit/plan-your-visit/covid-19-coronavirus/#

Shakespeare North Playhouse (Prescot) https://shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk/


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