TV series

Playing Shakespeare

Name: Playing Shakespeare
Released: 1984
Cast: Lisa Harrow, Sinéad Cusack, John Barton, Patrick Stewart, Richard Pasco

1984· 1 season· 30 min episodesTV-G★ 9.7Ended

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Where to watch

Not available to stream in US

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Synopsis

John Barton holds a master class in how to play Shakespeare, using members of the RSC doing scenes, sonnets, and commentary as prime examples.

Themes

miniseries theater performance

Episodes

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E1 The Two TraditionsNext upJul 29, 1984 · 30 min
Synopsis
Contrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.
E2 Using the VerseAug 5, 1984 · 30 min
Synopsis
John Barton and company examine blank verse. Its strengths and particularities are discussed in great detail. Members of the cast try out various readings.
E3 Language and CharacterAug 12, 1984 · 30 min
Synopsis
John Barton and the cast discuss how Shakespeare defines his character by the language they speak, and how the characters attempt to achieve their aims by means of what they say and how they say it.
E4 Speeches and SoliloquiesAug 19, 1984 · 30 min
Synopsis
John Barton and members of the RSC present a workshop on how Shakespeare used the soliloquy to directly connect the character with the audience.
E5 Irony and AmbiguityAug 26, 1984 · 30 min
Synopsis
John Barton and the RSC actors consider the subtle shadings produced by irony, ambiguity and sarcasm, and how best to express them.
E6 Passion and CoolnessSep 2, 1984 · 30 min
Synopsis
Hamlet's advice to the players is the best-known acting instruction in theatrical history. John Barton and the RSC actors explore this essential mandate to be both natural and intellectual.
E7 Rehearsing the TextSep 9, 1984 · 30 min
Synopsis
John Barton and the actors analyze a scene from Twelfth Night, identifying pointers towards character and staging.
E8 Exploring a CharacterSep 16, 1984 · 30 min
E9 Poetry and Hidden PoetrySep 23, 1984 · 30 min
Synopsis
The bard's unparalleled poetry is celebrated and examined in its glory.