Amateur Actors Participate in Point Loma Shakespeare Workshop Celebrating the Art of Performance
The enduring legacy of William Shakespeare continues to captivate audiences, and an acting workshop at Point Loma Playhouse is enabling a group of enthusiasts to breathe life into the Bard’s timeless work. Titled “Shakespeare Unfolded,” this weekly workshop is run by ActLiveNow and commenced on April 2, with sessions continuing until May 7. It is facilitated by Tom Haine, an actor and director who brings a wealth of experience and passion to the course, which offers participants the opportunity to explore the intricacies of Shakespearean drama.
Haine, who balances his profession as a criminal and immigration lawyer with his theatrical pursuits, discovered Shakespeare later in life, igniting a profound appreciation for the playwright’s genius. His introduction came at age 38 during an acting class at San Diego’s Old Globe theater, where he was inspired by the esteemed Shakespearean actor Jonathan McMurtry. This experience fueled Haine’s ambition, leading him to pursue formal training at notable institutions such as the Berkeley Repertory Theatre and Cambridge University, and to ultimately graduate from the prestigious British American Drama Academy Mid-Summer Oxford Program.
Over the years, Haine has significantly contributed to the theatrical landscape, acting in and directing renowned Shakespearean works, including “Macbeth,” “Hamlet,” and “Romeo and Juliet.” He recognizes the complexity of Shakespeare’s language, which can pose challenges for both actors and audiences alike, particularly for those unfamiliar with the plays. Through his teaching, Haine strives to equip students with the tools needed to navigate and authentically perform Shakespearean text.
Participants in “Shakespeare Unfolded” range from occasional dabblers to seasoned amateurs, all eager to delve into the rich poetry and profound themes embedded within Shakespeare’s work. The workshop costs between 5 and 0 and includes lessons on performing monologues, soliloquies, sonnets, and selecting and honing a favorite Shakespearean speech for a culminating performance.
For many, including Helen Lister, who rekindled her passion for theater after a hiatus for law school, the workshop serves as a meaningful return to the arts. Lister expressed her view that Shakespeare’s work possesses a universality that resonates powerfully across generations. Likewise, Laura Ganz-Holtan, a member of the San Diego Shakespeare Society, emphasizes the contemporary relevance of Shakespeare’s themes, finding enjoyment in deciphering the language and its connection to modern society.
As the course progresses, students learn valuable techniques to differentiate between verse and prose, master iambic pentameter, and interpret Shakespeare’s language in a way that is personal and engaging. The workshop’s culmination will feature a public performance on May 10 at 7:30 p.m. at Point Loma Playhouse, providing participants with a platform to showcase their newfound skills.
For more information about “Shakespeare Unfolded,” interested parties can visit the ActLiveNow website. The continued enthusiasm for Shakespeare’s works underlines the playwright’s lasting impact on culture and community engagement, illustrating how his plays continue to resonate in contemporary times.
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