Shakespeare: Physical Action
Course overview
This five-day course combines classical text with Stanislavski’s practical approach to acting, enabling you to ‘trust the power of the simplest physical action’ when performing Shakespeare.
Guided by our expert tutors, you will explore a range of practical exercises and techniques including scene study, text analysis, Alexander Technique, and work on classical monologues. You will discover how physical action can lead to the creative fusion of character and situation, and how Stanislavski’s approach can enable you to reveal and clarify meaning in Shakespeare’s plays.
This course is designed and led by RADA tutor Brigid Panet, with support from RADA Movement Teacher Katya Benjamin.
What will I learn on this course?
- Develop your understanding of how to practically approach Shakespeare’s plays
- Find greater confidence and physical ease through Alexander Technique
- Deepen your mind-body connection when acting.
Entry requirements
- There is no selection process for this course, if you feel this course is suitable for you and have read all the information on this webpage, then please proceed to booking.
- Participants must be over 18 and have fluent, confident use and knowledge of the English language.
Who is this course suitable for?
- Previous participants of Stanislavski: Physical Action
- Anyone wishing to improve their approach to performing Shakespeare
- Anyone considering applying for drama school.
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Course information
What are the Terms and Conditions of my booking?
You can read the full Terms and Conditions here.
Will there be anything I need to prepare before the course starts?
You will need to select, prepare and memorise a complete Shakespeare speech no less than 10 lines; spoken to another character or to the audience. This is not an audition, but for use in exercises during the course. We will ask you to tell us before the course starts which speech you have chosen.
In order to fully participate in this course, it is essential that you have read Hamlet and Much Ado About Nothing, and fully understand the story, characters and themes
For advance reading, we recommend:
- Stanislavski, an introduction by Jean Benedetti
- Stanislavski in Rehearsal, the Final Years by Vassili Osipovich Toporkov, translated by Christine Edwards
- The Elizabethan World Picture by E.M.W. Tillyard
But these are suggestions, and not required reading.
Is there any work to do outside of class time?
There will be no work set for outside of class.
What’s included in the fee?
The fee covers the cost of your tuition for the times advertised above and any materials essential to the course (and not specified here as materials you need to provide yourself). The fee does not include any meals or accommodation.
RADA cannot provide written references for Short Course participants.
What materials or equipment do I need?
You need to wear loose clothing that you can move in freely.
I have a disability or access requirement – can reasonable adjustments be made?
We are able to make reasonable adjustments to our training where possible. Many of our courses are highly practical. Most involve movement and some may include work on the floor. You may also be asked to read from various texts. If you have access requirements and/or require more information on access and facilities in our RADA buildings, please email shortcourses@rada.ac.uk
Are there any funding or payment plans available?
There are no RADA Scholarships available for Short Courses. We cannot offer payment plans, and full payment is required to secure your place on a course.
Can RADA provide accommodation?
We are unable to provide accommodation for RADA Short Courses.
Please note that in the event of cancellation, RADA can accept no liability for any costs you may already have incurred; and we strongly recommend you purchase insurance cover for any travel or accommodation booked before the start of the course.
Will I get a certificate at the end of the course?
Yes. A Certificate of Completion is available for this course. Certificates are awarded to students who had no unexcused absences or lateness and operated within the obligations laid out in the Terms and Conditions.
Does the course count towards University credits?
There are no University Credits associated with this course.
What is the attendance policy?
Our attendance policy can be read within our Terms and Conditions. 100% attendance and punctuality are expected for all classes.
How do I register for an in-person course?
You will be providing most of the information we need when you fill in your application form or information form.
On the first day of your course, you will be asked to arrive at RADA up to 30 minutes before the start of your first session, and you need to bring a copy of your passport, and, if applicable, evidence of your right to join a short course in the UK.