The RGS Gazette The Arts 29 Issue 12 July 2024 As Year 10 students at the Royal Grammar School, our recent trip to Shakespeare’s Globe was nothing short of remarkable. Joined by a select group of Year 12 students, we embarked on a journey that brought the world of Shakespeare alive, blending historical interpretations with practical drama techniques. Morning Exploration Our day began with a fascinating tour around the iconic Globe Theatre. As we stepped into this historic space, we were immediately struck by its architectural beauty and unique features. Our guide enlightened us about the theatre's natural lighting, strategic structural positioning and the configuration of the Globe, which plays a fundamental role in creating an authentic Elizabethan atmosphere. The open roof allows sunlight to pour in, illuminating the stage in a way that would have been experienced by audiences in Shakespeare's time. We also admired the intricate Elizabethan art encompassing the walls, each piece telling a story and adding to the rich tapestry of the Globe's history. The vibrant colours and detailed designs are not just decorative but serve to engage audiences in the world of the play. Midday Discussion: Diverse Interpretations of Hamlet Following the tour, we gathered to watch a series of brief videos showcasing different interpretations of one of Shakespeare’s most famous soliloquies, "To be, or not to be," from ‘Hamlet’. Each interpretation was unique some sets were minimalist, allowing the raw emotion of the actor to take centre stage, while others were more elaborate, using props and backdrops to enhance the scene’s depth. This exercise was surprising as it demonstrated how the number of objects on set could drastically change the audience's perception and the performance's overall impact. It sparked lively discussions amongst us about the significance of these choices and how they can alter the storytelling and interpretation depicted by the producer. Afternoon Activities: Lunch and a Leap into Drama Then, we headed into the practical part of the trip: a dynamic drama workshop. This active session was designed to deepen our understanding of performance and the power of movement. We were given a script to read through, and as we did, we learned how our physical movements could influence the delivery and emotional impact of our lines. One of the most intriguing exercises involved pointing at every punctuation mark as we read. This seemingly simple technique highlighted the natural rhythm and pauses in the text, bringing a new level of transparency and emphasis to our performance. Investigating Iambic Pentameter Our workshop concluded with a discussion regarding iambic pentameter, the heartbeat of Shakespeare’s poetry, playing an instrumental role in his global success. Understanding this metrical pattern was like unlocking a secret code. We realised how the alternating unstressed and stressed syllables create a rhythmic flow that adds to the emotional and dramatic intensity of the plays. "Understanding this metrical pattern was like unlocking a secret code." This newfound appreciation for Shakespeare’s writing allowed us to appreciate the complexity of his works. Reflections on an Enriching Experience The trip to Shakespeare’s Globe was an unforgettable experience, blending educational insights with drama skills in a way that was both fun and inspiring. It was a day filled with discovery, from the historical significance of the Globe’s architecture to the nuanced interpretations of Hamlet, and the handson drama techniques that brought Shakespeare’s words to life. For us students, this journey was more than just a school trip; it was a voyage into the heart of theatre, igniting a passion for the performing arts that will stay with us for years to come. A Day of Discovery and Drama Freddie Grimmett and Oliver James (Year 10) recount an exciting school trip to Shakespeare's Globe RGS students partake in drama activities at the Globe (2024) An aerial view of the Globe, with the stage visible (2022)
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