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Series · 1984–1984Ended

Playing Shakespeare

9.7·1 season·9 episodes·30 min avg.·United States of America

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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01
The Two Traditions
The Two TraditionsUp next
Jul 29, 1984

Contrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.

02
Using the Verse
Using the Verse
Aug 5, 1984

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

03
Language and Character
Language and Character
Aug 12, 1984

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.

04
Speeches and Soliloquies
Speeches and Soliloquies
Aug 19, 1984

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

05
Irony and Ambiguity
Irony and Ambiguity
Aug 26, 1984

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

06
Passion and Coolness
Passion and Coolness
Sep 2, 1984

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.

07
Rehearsing the Text
Rehearsing the Text
Sep 9, 1984

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

08
Exploring a Character
Exploring a Character
Sep 16, 1984
09
Poetry and Hidden Poetry
Poetry and Hidden Poetry
Sep 23, 1984

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

Cast

20 credited
Lisa Harrow
Cast
Sinéad Cusack
Cast
JB
John Barton
Cast
Patrick Stewart
Cast
Richard Pasco
Cast
Barbara Leigh-Hunt
Cast
Alan Howard
Cast
Norman Rodway
Cast
Donald Sinden
Cast
Peggy Ashcroft
Cast

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