As part of the MA Shakespeare and Creativity course, students have the opportunity to perform at the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC)’s The Other Place Theatre. Rachel writes about her experience performing on this stage.
The most exciting opportunity offered by the Shakespeare and Creativity MA at The Shakespeare Institute is the ‘Ensemble’ module. This involves working with RSC professionals to create, produce and perform our own piece of theatre at The Other Place Theatre.
Our Performance
Our group had to create a new play responding to the brief ‘Talking Back to Shakespeare / Talking to the 21st Century’. We decided to adapt Shakespeare’s play Troilus and Cressida. But we wanted to give voice and agency to the women and queer characters that Shakespeare, and other adapters of Greek mythology and Troilus and Cressida’s romance, have historically diminished or suppressed. We were particularly interested in the parallels between Cressida and Helen of Troy. So we decided to use Helen as a narrator to retell Cressida’s story from her perspective- thus, Helen/Cressida was born!
We each took on a range of roles in the creation and production of our play, from directing to design. I took on the role of dramaturg and was part of the writing team that worked collaboratively to create the concept and the script for Helen/Cressida.
At the start of this course, I did not consider myself an actress. My only performance experience was a handful of secondary school plays. Over the course of this MA, I have tried to explore and strengthen my acting skills. This has been through our ‘Theatre Practice’ module and by participating in the ‘Shakespeare Institute Players’ drama society. Though I was eager to try my hand at acting, I was not expecting to take on a major role. But, to my surprise, I was cast as Cressida. Playing a titular role on an RSC stage was one of the most daunting, surreal and exhilarating experiences of my life!
Working with the RSC
Throughout the process of creating Helen/Cressida – from its conception to the day of our performance- we were supported by RSC professionals. We were offered invaluable workshops from RSC designers, writers and directors. We also liaised with the marketing team who helped with the creation of our poster, and with ticket sales.
On the week of the performance, we had access to a rehearsal space at The Other Place. We were made to feel very welcome by all of the staff. In particular, we worked closely with sound and lighting team. They were essential in getting our vision onto the stage and treated us with the same respect and professionalism as any RSC production.
What Have I Gained from this Opportunity?
Being able to perform on an RSC stage, guided by industry professionals, was a truly unique experience. Ifeel very privileged to have participated in this project. I have cultivated new writing, acting, and design skills and have gained insight into the workings of a professional theatre. From working as a creative ensemble, I have also learnt valuable lessons on teamwork and collaboration which I will carry forward to all areas of my life beyond the theatre.
But, most importantly, this opportunity has significantly boosted my confidence. With the encouragement of my peers, teaching staff and RSC professionals I was able go out of my comfort zone and achieve something beyond my wildest dreams. Performing on that stage was truly unforgettable, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity.