Speaking Shakespeare

Patsy Rodenburg's Speaking Shakespeare provides practical exercises and textual analysis to help actors unlock their potential for playing iconic characters. It discusses speeches and scenes from Shakespeares plays, focusing on the language of power and clear, direct communication. Each chapter has been revised with 20 additional years of experience as a voice coach.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This new edition of Speaking Shakespeare provides you with all the essential tools to bring any of Shakespeare's eclectic characters to life. Patsy Rodenburg employs practical exercises and textual analysis to enhance your dramatic resonance, breathing, and placement, unlocking your potential for playing these iconic roles. Speeches and scenes such as Mark Antony's "O, pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth" and the bloody scene in which Macbeth admits to Lady Macbeth that he has "done the deed" are placed in context and discussed in depth. Combining clear practical, textual, and imaginative work with a brilliant analysis of scenes and speeches from across Shakespeare's plays, this is an essential and inspiring guide for anyone working on his plays today. It brings a renewed focus on the language of power, so frequently spoken in the worlds of politicians and company directors, which will give readers insight into the potency of clear, direct communication, specifically in the context of Shakespeare. Each chapter has been revised following the author's 20 additional years of experience as a voice coach and includes techniques necessary for a clear and convincing performance.

Introduction:
Speaking Shakespeare is a comprehensive guide designed to help actors and directors unlock the depth and complexity of Shakespeare's characters. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a newcomer to the stage, this book offers valuable insights and techniques to bring Shakespeare's words to life.

Author's Expertise:
Patsy Rodenburg, the author of Speaking Shakespeare, is a renowned voice coach with over 20 years of experience working with actors and directors on Shakespearean productions. Her expertise in vocal production, textual analysis, and dramatic resonance makes her a trusted authority in the field.

Practical Exercises:
The book is filled with practical exercises that help actors develop their skills and understanding of Shakespeare's language. These exercises range from vocal warm-ups to character analysis, and they are designed to enhance your ability to deliver powerful and convincing performances.

Textual Analysis:
Rodenburg provides a detailed analysis of Shakespeare's plays, exploring the language, themes, and motifs that underpin his characters. By studying the text closely, actors can gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations, allowing them to bring them to life with authenticity and depth.

Scenes and Speeches:
The book includes selected scenes and speeches from various Shakespearean productions, placing them in context and discussing their significance. This analysis helps actors understand the dramatic impact of the language and the power of the performances, enabling them to create compelling and memorable interpretations.

Renewed Focus on Language of Power:
Speaking Shakespeare emphasizes the language of power, which is frequently spoken in the worlds of politicians and company directors. Rodenburg offers insights into the potency of clear, direct communication, particularly in the context of Shakespeare's plays. By understanding the language, actors can enhance their ability to convey complex ideas and emotions effectively.

Chapter Revisions:
Each chapter in Speaking Shakespeare has been revised and updated to reflect the author's 20 additional years of experience as a voice coach. The book includes new techniques and insights that will help actors refine their performances and achieve greater clarity and conviction.

Conclusion:
Speaking Shakespeare is a must-have guide for anyone who wants to explore the rich and diverse world of Shakespeare's characters. With its practical exercises, textual analysis, and insightful discussions, this book provides actors and directors with the tools they need to bring Shakespeare's words to life with passion, depth, and authenticity. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a newcomer to the stage, this book will help you unlock your potential and create memorable performances that resonate with audiences.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 215 x 140 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350161658
Edition number: 2 ed