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Thoughts From The Young Shakespeare Frontby Michelle Calhoun-Fitts For those of you who didn't already know, some of the exciting programs offered by the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival are targeted towards kids. There are the InterACT workshops, the Midsummer's Camps and the DG Menchetti Young Shakespeare program. In conjunction with the Nevada Shakespeare Company, I am fortunate to be involved in all three of these programs. Now wait just a minute...I actually get to mold young minds and turn them into Bard-lovers? COOL! Insert happy dance here! My love affair with Shakespeare began many years ago, but NOT, as it turns out, when I was forced to read his works in English class. That was more like a bad first date...Nothing worse than a man who constantly uses weird words to make me feel inferior. Oh no, the love affair began much later when I lived a semi-nomadic existence, spending my summers traipsing about California and performing at various Renaissance Faires. Although highly manufactured for fun (not accuracy), those Faires made me feel like I really was an actor in Shakespeare's lifetime (hello, no showers!). More importantly, PERFORMING his plays helped me to both appreciate and understand Shakespeare's works. The plays were interactive and silly and poignant and attention-grabbing and-well, you get the idea. I think it was because of this crazy experience that I am particularly drawn to the Young Shakespeare and InterACT programs. To introduce Shakespeare in a fun and interactive way is extremely appealing. I won't lie: Sometimes it's not always easy to get that too-cool kid up on his feet or to commit to the acting aspect during the InterACT workshops, but when he does, it's like a light has turned on for him (and for his classmates too). The comprehension and the enjoyment of these amazing written works has occurred. Woohoooo! Another Bard-Lover born! As part of my mission to continue Shakespeare appreciation in the youths of the world, I will be directing the Young Shakespeare version of Much Ado About Nothing for the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival this summer. Attempting to make this humorous romp both fun and interactive for children presents special challenges...But that is another story for another time. Just know that I can't wait to see what this production holds. 1 Comment...
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The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival is a 501 C (3) non-profit organization established for the cultural benefit and enjoyment of all residents and visitors to our region. We strive to plan, produce and advocate the finest cultural events at Lake Tahoe while educating future generations on the importance of including theatre, music and art in their everyday lives. Supported by Stimulus Funding through the Nevada Arts Council's SNAP Grant Program.
Posted by Cameron Crain | Friday, April 24, 2009 3:36pm (PST)
Great blog Michelle! We are so lucky to have you directing this. I especially loved your tales of discovering Shakespeare in Renaissance Fair-hood.