The Art of Stagecraft

Claire Schoonover and Paul Hunter ran a course during April and May on the Art of Stagecraft, lasting seven weeks and culminating in a private performance for the two groups. Each class comprised 14 people from a range of backgrounds, experience [mostly very little] and nationalities: American, British, Dutch, German, Irish [our Chairman!], Italian, Spanish and Swedish.

They were split into pairs or threesomes and given a short piece to prepare: their progress in such a short time was incredible, not least the very confident 13-year-old Alessandro Contardi.

They were firstly told that acting wasn’t just about entertaining an audience, that it was important to know what a director wants, how to interpret a script and move on stage without being over-dramatic: a former dancer had to rein in her expressive arms!

The participants loved the experience and it’s hoped the newcomers will further enhance the Players’ pool of actors, and/or other backstage aspects such as lighting, sound, props or wielding tools in the Workshop.

Thanks to Claire and Paul, who we’re sure are already thinking about a sequel course.