Early Modern Actors and Shakespeare's Theatre: Thinking with the Body

Early Modern Actors and Shakespeare's Theatre explores the 'toolkit of the early modern player' and offers new readings of Shakespeare's plays through the lens of their skills, which differ from those of contemporary actors. Theatre is ephemeral, and much of what happened on the stage took place within the gaps of written language, including implicit or explicit calls for fights, dances, military formations, feats of physical skill, song, and clowning. Recapturing a positive account of the skills and expertise of the early modern players will result in a more capacious understanding of the nature of theatricality in the period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Shakespeare's actors brought a range of skills to their craft that differed from those of contemporary actors. These skills included physicality, vocalization, improvisation, and collaboration. Physicality was essential for Shakespeare's plays, which often required actors to perform complex movements and stunts. Vocalization was also important, as actors had to convey their characters' emotions and ideas through their voices. Improvisation was a key skill, as actors had to create their lines and actions on the spot, often without a script. Collaboration was essential, as actors had to work together to create a cohesive performance.

One of the key differences between Shakespeare's actors and contemporary actors is the level of training and education they received. Shakespeare's actors were trained in a variety of disciplines, including grammar, rhetoric, and music. They also had access to a wide range of plays and performances, which allowed them to develop their skills and expertise. Contemporary actors, on the other hand, are typically trained in a specific discipline, such as acting or directing. They may have access to a limited range of plays and performances, which can limit their ability to develop their skills and expertise.

Another difference between Shakespeare's actors and contemporary actors is the style of performance they employed. Shakespeare's plays were often performed in a style that was more naturalistic and realistic than contemporary plays. This style required actors to use their bodies and voices in a more natural way, which can be challenging for contemporary actors. Contemporary actors, on the other hand, are often trained in a style that is more stylized and theatrical, which can be more exciting for audiences.

Despite these differences, Shakespeare's actors and contemporary actors share many common skills. These skills include the ability to communicate effectively, the ability to create a character, and the ability to work with others. Communication is essential for any actor, and Shakespeare's actors were particularly skilled at communicating their characters' emotions and ideas through their words and actions. Creating a character is also essential for any actor, and Shakespeare's actors were particularly skilled at creating complex and nuanced characters. Working with others is essential for any actor, and Shakespeare's actors were particularly skilled at working with their fellow actors to create a cohesive performance.

In addition to these skills, Shakespeare's actors and contemporary actors also faced a number of challenges. One of the biggest challenges was the lack of technology. Shakespeare's plays were often performed in a small and intimate space, which made it difficult for actors to use props and other visual aids. Contemporary actors, on the other hand, have access to a wide range of technology, which can help them create more complex and visually stunning performances.

Another challenge was the changing social and political climate of the time. Shakespeare's plays were often written during a period of great social and political upheaval, and they reflected the concerns and values of the time. Contemporary actors, on the other hand, are often writing and performing plays that reflect the concerns and values of the present day. This can make it difficult for actors to connect with their audience and to create a meaningful performance.

Despite these challenges, Shakespeare's actors and contemporary actors continue to be celebrated for their skills and expertise. Shakespeare's plays are still performed all over the world, and they continue to inspire new generations of actors and audiences. Contemporary actors are also making significant contributions to the field of theatre, and they are exploring new and innovative ways to create and perform plays.

In conclusion, Shakespeare's actors brought a range of skills to their craft that differed from those of contemporary actors. These skills included physicality, vocalization, improvisation, and collaboration. Physicality was essential for Shakespeare's plays, which often required actors to perform complex movements and stunts. Vocalization was also important, as actors had to convey their characters' emotions and ideas through their voices. Improvisation was a key skill, as actors had to create their lines and actions on the spot, often without a script. Collaboration was essential, as actors had to work together to create a cohesive performance. Despite these differences, Shakespeare's actors and contemporary actors share many common skills, and they continue to be celebrated for their skills and expertise.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 192 x 132 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472576026