Demanding and intense, this course is for international actors who wish to develop their craft through an in-depth exploration of the classical canon.
Prioritising ensemble work, the course builds upon actors’ prior experience and encourages growth through conservatoire training in classical drama. It culminates in a public production in London and showcases in New York and Los Angeles to ease their
re-entry into the industry.
Course Content
Based on a contemporary investigation into Shakespeare’s plays, the course also explores works from the Jacobean, Spanish Golden Age, Restoration and French Classical Theatre periods.
Taking place over four terms, it is delivered through a rigorous programme of class work, scene study and workshop performances. Classes – including acting, voice, movement, textual analysis and contextual studies, stage combat and historical dance – strengthen students’ existing skills and prepare them for the rehearsal process. Scene study focuses on integrating technical skills with the exploration of language and action – leading to workshop performances which are closed to the public.
In the final term, students perform a public production of a classical text, directed by a professional director to which agents and casting directors are invited. This takes place in either the LAMDA Linbury Studio or another London venue as part of our LAMDA at Large initiative. In addition, there is an internal thesis presentation in which students devise and perform their response to a classic text.
During the course, students visit Stratford-upon-Avon to observe the Royal Shakespeare Company’s work and are encouraged to enhance their training by seeing as much theatre as possible.