Shakespeare Theatre Announces New Shakespeare Academy Classes

Crowe, a frequent Main Stage director, will lead classic scene study classes for theatre enthusiasts who enjoy delving into classic texts as well as audition workshops for aspiring adult and young adult actors. Associate Director of Education and one of the Theatre's Fight Directors Doug West will lead both sword and unarmed stage combat courses for students ages 16 and up. Students will receive individualized attention as they discover the meticulous art of choreographing realistic duels and fights for shows.

Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte will lead a series of Audition Workshops designed to empower the artist and redirect the focus back onto what an actor can control in the audition room. In addition to Ms. Monte, a New York City talent agent, casting director, and other professional artists will join the panel of instructors.

All classes will be held in the Theatre's state-of-the-art support facility in Florham Park. "Academy students will utilize the same facilities that our professional company enjoys including classrooms, a large Green Room, and a specialized rehearsal space," says Crowe. To register or find more information about The Shakespeare Theatre Academy, call 973-845-6742or email classes@shakespearenj.org.

The Shakespeare Theatre Academy's youth and teen classes include:

TEEN SHAKESPEARE SCENE STUDY (ages 14-18): From text analysis and speech work to engaging in the "deliciousness of language" and physical characterization, this eight-week course explores some of Shakespeare's most popular scenes and sonnets, taking students through the actor's approach to Shakespeare.

YOUNG ACTORS WORKSHOP (ages 10-14): Acting fundamentals are the focus of this fun and fast-paced series. Through a variety of theater games and scene work, students will focus on ensemble building and performance techniques, including voice and movement while using a variety of texts including an introduction to Shakespeare.

EN GARDE!: SWORD PLAY 101 (ages 14 - 18): The masterful craft of single sword play flashes through and enlivens so many of Shakespeare's plays; from the impassioned and fiery fights of Romeo and Juliet and Hamlet to the comic diversions of Twelfth Night and The Comedy of Errors. This eight-week series will cover the basics of form and safety, as well as the acting magic required to make Shakespeare's fights come to life. Foils and blades will be provided during classes by the Theatre.

The Shakespeare Theatre Academy's adult classes and workshops include:

ADULT SCENE STUDY: SHAKESPEARE & MOLIÈRE (ages 18 and up): Designed for novice and early-level actors, this eight-week series provides a first step into the intricacies of these master playwrights' works. Using monologues and scene work, participants will focus on the skills necessary to bring life to the classics, utilizing the genius of Shakespeare & Molière.

AUDITIONING: SHIFTING THE PARADIGM (ages 18 and up): This one-day workshop will be led by the Shakespeare Theatre's esteemed Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte, members of the artistic staff and guests, including a New York City talent agent, casting director, and several professional actors. The workshop is designed to empower actors with valuable insider information and focus on what an actor can and should control in an audition situation. Each student will be given text to prepare prior to the workshop as well as a chance to give a "cold reading."

AUDITION BOOTCAMP (ages 18 and up): This two-day workshop combines the innovative Shifting the Paradigm workshop with a second day devoted to polishing and presenting a classical monologue for the individual's repertoire. Each artist will receive personal coaching from Ms. Monte and her team of education, directing, and casting professionals.

To register or find more information about The Shakespeare Theatre Academy, call 973-845-6742 or email classes@shakespearenj.org.

Photo by Meredith Keffer