Theatre Exchange: Shakespeare

Suitable for KS2 or KS3. These workshops are an excellent introduction to the play / topic, or as an introduction to the text. Our workshops aim to use the text in conjunction with games, drama exercises and modern interpretations, to clarify the complexities of language and verse in the creation of an experience, which is enjoyable and accessible to all.

Workshops can be altered to suit either primary school students or students from years 7 - 9. Workshops include:  Macbeth / Romeo & Juliet / Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

Macbeth - example workshop:

0 - 15 minutes

Students are treated as actors and begin by warming up their body and brain. Then, using imagination, students begin exploring the characters, relationships and the historical backdrop of the play.

15 - 20 minutes

Led by the actors, students share their knowledge of the play and William Shakespeare.

20 - 45 minutes

During the reign of James I, 1652 people were accused of performing acts of witchcraft and executed. For an audience 400 years ago, to witness these beings brought to life on stage would have been terrifying. Together with the actors, students will look at the powers that the witches have and create witches with real power.

45 - 55 minutes

The actors perform a short comical version of the play, which highlights the storyline and journeys of the major characters.

55 - 105 minutes

Using games, drama exercises, improvisation and scripting their own scenes, students explore the murders of Duncan, Banquo and Macduff’s family. The actors will highlight Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s journey through the play, by performing key scenes, all of which will encourage students to evaluate the action and themes, exploring characters and issues, gaining a deeper understanding of the play.

105 - 120 minutes

Working in groups, students recreate, by themselves, what they consider to be the essential elements of the play. The actors lead a discussion around what students chosen elements were and why. The workshop finishes by finding out students opinions towards the play, compared to how it was viewed 400 years ago.