Artist: Shakespeare-in-the-Schools
Artists Residencies and Pre- and Post-Performance Workshops are essential components of Shakespeare-in-the-School's (SITS) mission. Whether during a single workshop or an extended residency, we always aim to empower, and challenge.
The “classics” conjures up images of old books, stuffy language, and boredom for many students. “Adapting the Classics” invites students to delve into the great masterpieces of literature to make their own discoveries and conclusions. Using Brown University’s ArtsLiteracy Project (www.artslit.org) as a model, Shakespeare-in-the-Schools’ Teaching Artists lead students through the process of exploring and dramatizing classics using writing exercises, improvisation, creative drama, and text analysis and comprehension strategies. The ArtsLiteracy process makes classical works relevant to today’s students. Shakespeare-in-the-Schools' "Adapting the Classics" residency enhances students’ literacy development through creativity and drama techniques around challenging texts such as William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club or any work of literature from the school curriculum. Residencies typically consist of 6-12 sessions based on a text chosen from the school curriculum. They are preceded by joint planning meetings where the teaching team creates the unit by exploring the text and themes.
“Students were able to visually and kinesthetically connect to Hamlet in a way different from discussion. Sam Turich, our teaching artist, did an absolutely wonderful job with the students and connecting with them!”
- Katie O’Lare, Trinity High School
Maximum # of students:
22 recommended
Requirements:
Flexible classroom space
Minimum sequential workshops:
12 recommended
