Playing Shakespeare (1984)
John Barton holds a master class in how to play Shakespeare, using members of the RSC doing scenes, sonnets, and commentary as prime examples.
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Episode 1 - The Two Traditions
Release Date: 1984-07-29Contrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.
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Episode 2 - Using the Verse
Release Date: 1984-08-05John Barton and company examine blank verse. Its strengths and particularities are discussed in great detail. Members of the cast try out various readings.
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Episode 3 - Language and Character
Release Date: 1984-08-12John 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.
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Episode 4 - Speeches and Soliloquies
Release Date: 1984-08-19John Barton and members of the RSC present a workshop on how Shakespeare used the soliloquy to directly connect the character with the audience.
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Episode 5 - Irony and Ambiguity
Release Date: 1984-08-26John Barton and the RSC actors consider the subtle shadings produced by irony, ambiguity and sarcasm, and how best to express them.
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Episode 6 - Passion and Coolness
Release Date: 1984-09-02Hamlet'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.
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Episode 7 - Rehearsing the Text
Release Date: 1984-09-09John Barton and the actors analyze a scene from Twelfth Night, identifying pointers towards character and staging.
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Episode 8 - Exploring a Character
Release Date: 1984-09-16 -
Episode 9 - Poetry and Hidden Poetry
Release Date: 1984-09-23The bard's unparalleled poetry is celebrated and examined in its glory.