The Talbot Heath school community were delighted to welcome actor, Globe Practitioner and Workshop Leader, Adam Cunis from Globe Education, who led engaging workshops focusing on ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ for the whole of Lower 4 in the Hub.
Pupils discussed the Globe theatre itself and elements of Shakespeare’s life, before their exploration of plot; the relationship dynamics between characters and the audience; and the rich language of the play, through engaging drama-focused activities. Adam expertly entertained and enthused using a range of vocal and drama techniques, leading the girls to explore character interactions between Helena and Demetrius in the enchanted woods, and were encouraged to use gesture, voice and emphasis on the iambic pentameter to bring the scene to life. Adam – who has has played numerous roles in theatre and has an MA in Staging Shakespeare, from University of Exeter – gave pupils an exciting insight into the influence of culture and society on the play and performance, which will prove very useful to pupils when revisiting Shakespeare in Upper 4 and particularly for GCSE Literature.
The girls were extremely positive about the visit, enjoying Adam’s charismatic delivery of the workshop. Thanks also go to Mrs Wakeling, from the English department, for organising this superb Shakespearean annual event.
