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BELL SHAKESPEARE
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
Contents IN SCHOOLS
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Actors At Work
Midsummer Madness
Macbeth: Undone
Artist In Residence Student Masterclasses
IN THEATRES
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Romeo And Juliet #BehindTheBalcony
Live-streamed Q&A
Mainstage Productions
As You Like It
Hamlet
The Tempest
Special 25th Anniversary offer for teachers
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
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Discovering The Tempest PD on Demand Regional Teacher Scholarship
Resources
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Shakespeare Unbound Online resources Keep the conversation going Ask us anything
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The bigger picture
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Booking Terms and Conditions
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Thank you to our partners
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From our Co-Artistic Directors 2015 is a very exciting year for Bell Shakespeare – it’s our 25th anniversary! Founded in 1990 and beginning life in a circus tent, Bell Shakespeare has grown into Australia’s national touring theatre company playing to approximately 80,000 school students every year in school halls and theatres all over the country. Add another 75,000 online and you’ll see that our outreach is unrivalled. So how are we celebrating our 25th birthday? With a stunning line-up of popular Shakespeare plays. The year begins with the lyrical romantic comedy As You Like It directed by Peter Evans and featuring John Bell in the role of Jaques. This will play in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. Hamlet is our big national tour of some thirty venues. It will be directed by Damien Ryan, whose Henry V in 2014 was such a resounding triumph. In the title role we have Josh McConville, one of the most dynamic performers of his generation. The Tempest, one of Shakespeare’s last plays, will perform in Sydney. John Bell will direct this magical, mystical fable with a superlative cast of actors, headed by Brian Lipson as Prospero. Our dedicated schools production in 2015 will be Romeo And Juliet, performed by the 2015 Players under the direction of James Evans, whose Macbeth was such a success with school audiences in 2014. This will be
a 90-minute, no-interval, adaptation performing at Sydney Opera House and Arts Centre Melbourne. It is sure to sell out fast, so we urge you to book early! The Players will also take to the road with our Actors At Work shows touring the country with the dark depths of Macbeth: Undone and the hilarious heights of Midsummer Madness. Both shows are tried and true favourites with students. We’re also excited about our new online resource with ABC Splash, Shakespeare Unbound. These 12 scenes from six of Shakespeare’s most famous plays are paired with commentaries from the director and cast, and will prove to be invaluable for students and teachers alike, allowing unfettered access to Shakespeare’s works performed by Australia’s best known theatre actors. Alongside these productions we’ll once again offer Student Masterclasses, Artist In Residence, the Regional Teacher Scholarship and teacher Professional Learning. We wish you a happy and fulfilling year of Shakespeare in the year ahead. John Bell AO & Peter Evans Co-Artistic Directors
Learning 2015
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In Schools Actors At Work 25 years after Bell Shakespeare began, learning is still at the heart of our work and we’re proud that our flagship Actors At Work programme continues to introduce generations of new students to Shakespeare with the highest quality productions delivered right to your school. With unlimited imagination, masterful acting and a roadcase full of clever props, we bring Shakespeare’s plays to life right in front of your students’ eyes.
Midsummer Madness
Macbeth: Undone
BY MATT EDGERTON & JOANNA ERSKINE
BY MATT EDGERTON & JOANNA ERSKINE
Fairies, mechanicals, lovers and a magic potion gone wrong – welcome to the world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Charting the course of Shakespeare’s hilarious romantic comedy from start to finish, Midsummer Madness is the perfect introduction to Shakespeare for junior students. In 50 minutes, The Players will transport your class to the interconnecting worlds of the lovers, the fairies, and the players; combining key scenes with modern commentary and key expository insights into the conventions of Shakespeare’s theatre.
Back by popular demand, Macbeth: Undone exposes the inner workings of the Scottish Play, delving deep into action and consequence, responsibility and blame. Designed for senior students, Macbeth: Undone follows the journey of Shakespeare’s great power couple from ambition to destruction. The production will highlight insights into directorial interpretation and actors’ performance choices in staging this play. Dark deeds and guilty consciences combine with illuminating and entertaining contemporary commentary, for an atmospheric and thrilling rendition.
WHO’S IT FOR? Years 7–9 HOW LONG? One hour in total – 50-minute performance and 10-minute Q&A with The Players They were hooked from the very start. What a vital, refreshing and inspiring window into Shakespeare. I’m not sure how it’s possible, but Bell gets better every year. Andrew McHugh, Monte Sant’Angelo, NSW
WHO’S IT FOR? Years 9–12 HOW LONG? One hour in total – 50-minute performance and 10-minute Q&A with The Players
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CURRICULUM LINKS English: Language, Literature, Literacy; The Arts: Drama, Theatre Studies, Entertainment Industry; Humanities and Social Sciences: History
ONLINE RESOURCES An extensive suite of online resources will be available including videos, interviews, photo galleries, design images and classroom activities.
BOOKING INFO
ACTORS AT WORK 2015 TOUR 9–20 March Sydney NSW 16–20 March Central Coast & Newcastle NSW 23–27 March Newcastle & Hunter Region NSW 23–27 March South Coast NSW 30 March – 2 April Southern Highlands NSW 30 March – 2 April Mid North Coast NSW 7–10 April Canberra ACT 13–17 April Darwin NT 20 April – 6 May Perth WA 20–24 April Far North Coast NSW
HOW MUCH? $1,190 for up to 140 students Additional students $8.50 each up to a maximum of 200 students Performances are GST exempt
27 April – 1 May Brisbane & Toowoomba QLD
BOOK NOW using the enclosed booking form and fax to 1300 552 271 or email learning@bellshakespeare.com.au
1–5 June Albury & Wagga Wagga NSW
This is the second time Bell Shakespeare has visited our school and converted a teenage audience with no interest in drama or Shakespeare into a totally engaged and appreciative audience. Fantastic! Julie Williams, Sowilo Community High School, WA
11–22 May Sydney NSW 18 May – 5 June Adelaide SA 25–29 May Mildura VIC & Riverina NSW 9–12 June Cowra & Parkes & Forbes NSW 9–12 June Sydney NSW 31 August – 4 September Melbourne VIC 7–11 September Regional VIC 7–18 September Sydney NSW 14–18 September Hobart TAS 21–25 September Launceston TAS 21–25 September Canberra ACT 6–9 October Dubbo & Orange & Bathurst NSW 12–16 October Sydney NSW
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Bell Shakespeare
Learning 2015
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Artist In Residence Bell Shakespeare’s Artist In Residence programme provides one- to two-week residencies in schools across Australia, with our expert arts educators presenting exclusive, tailored residencies developed in consultation with you. What would you do with one of Bell Shakespeare’s arts educators in your school? A series of dynamic and practical Shakespeare masterclasses with your most reticent year group? An intensive Hamlet exploration with senior students? An entire school Shakespeare project or festival? Professional Learning for teachers? Whatever you need, we’ll tailor the residency to suit. Give us a call to discuss how a Bell Shakespeare Artist In Residence might benefit your school community.
WHEN? Throughout 2015 Please contact us for availability WHERE? Across Australia WHO’S IT FOR? Any year groups, from primary to upper secondary HOW MUCH? The cost of the Bell Shakespeare Artist In Residence programme is calculated on a case-by-case basis. Call us to discuss your dream residency today. BOOK NOW by contacting us for a quote. Call us on 1300 305 730 or email us at learning@bellshakespeare.com.au
Student Masterclasses Whether you need to introduce your students to a Shakespeare play or involve them in an in-depth exploration for senior study, our in-school Student Masterclasses are guaranteed to raise even the most reluctant students to their feet, and encourage them to enjoy reading, speaking and understanding Shakespeare’s works in new and exciting ways.
WHEN AND WHERE? Available in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth throughout 2015. School tours for other regions can also be arranged on request. Contact us for information. WHO’S IT FOR? Any year group, maximum 40 students per masterclass
Simply select your Shakespeare play, book a date and time that suits you, and one of our expert arts educators will visit your classroom for an action-packed two-hour experience.
HOW LONG? 2 hours duration
We’ll design the masterclass in consultation with you, so whether your students need an introduction to Shakespeare’s language or they need to zero in on Hamlet’s motives for senior exams, we can help.
BESPOKE MASTERCLASSES We are able to create tailored masterclasses on any other Shakespeare text or related topic as well. Contact us on 1300 305 730 for pricing and availability.
AVAILABLE TOPICS/PLAYS Introduction To Shakespeare (choose your play base), A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Antony And Cleopatra*, As You Like It, Hamlet*, Henry IV Part 1*, Julius Caesar*, King Lear, Macbeth, Much Ado About Nothing, Othello, Richard III*, Romeo And Juliet, The Comedy Of Errors, The Merchant Of Venice*, The Tempest*, Twelfth Night*.
BOOK NOW using the enclosed booking form and fax to 1300 552 271 or email learning@bellshakespeare.com.au
*Specialist HSC or VCE masterclasses are available for these texts.
HOW MUCH? $660 (incl. GST)
Highly, highly recommended as it really brings Shakespeare off the page and into life. It really helps to break down the stereotypical student response of ‘I can’t understand Shakespeare’. Robert Prudence, Singleton High School, NSW
Bell Shakespeare productions are always excellent and provide an excellent introduction to Shakespeare for our students. I love providing my students with this experience each year. Rosemary Russell, Beaconhills College, VIC
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In Theatres Romeo And Juliet BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE DIRECTOR JAMES EVANS WITH THE 2015 PLAYERS Forbidden love, family feuds and fast-paced fights. Bell Shakespeare presents a contemporary production of Romeo And Juliet that will take teenagers from cheers to tears. Hold on tight as Shakespeare’s classic play of starcrossed lovers unfolds with a passion and disaster that will be as blinding as it is breathtaking. SYDNEY Co-presented with Sydney Opera House Sydney Opera House, Playhouse 20 July – 14 August 2015 10am and 1pm daily Audio described performance at Sydney Opera House, including a pre-show touch tour. Wednesday 5 August 1pm. MELBOURNE Presented in partnership with Arts Centre Melbourne Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse 18–21 August 2015 10am and 1pm daily
WHO’S IT FOR? Years 7–11 HOW LONG? 90 minutes (no interval) CURRICULUM LINKS English: Language, Literature, Literacy; The Arts: Drama, Theatre Studies, Entertainment Industry ONLINE RESOURCES An extensive suite of online resources will be available including videos, interviews, photo galleries, design images and classroom activities. HOW MUCH? $26 per student Teachers at student prices One complimentary teacher ticket per 20 student tickets A limited number of $22 early bird tickets are available if booked by 13 February 2015, unless sold out prior. DISADVANTAGED SCHOOL BURSARIES Thanks to the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, we’re offering $13 tickets for disadvantaged schools. That’s a 50% discount. Please note that these tickets are limited and will be allocated by order of receipt of booking form. Eligibility is based on school ICSEA ratings. Please contact Bell Shakespeare on 1300 305 730 for more information on eligibility. BOOK NOW using the enclosed booking form and fax to 1300 552 271 or email learning@bellshakespeare.com.au
$13
TICKETS FOR DISADVANTAGED SCHOOLS*
*Conditions apply
Got a question? Call us on 1300 305 730 or visit bellshakespeare.com.au/learning
sydney opera house
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Bell Shakespeare
Romeo And Juliet Resources #BEHINDTHEBALCONY For never was a story of more woe Than this of Juliet and her Romeo. Join the cast and creatives of Romeo And Juliet in the lead up to the production, as they explore the greatest love story ever told, from behind the scenes. Through social media, students are invited to ask questions, offer suggestions and participate in conversations around Bell Shakespeare’s reinterpreted and reimagined contemporary production. The cast will share their experiences from behind the balcony, inviting students to join them along the rehearsal and performance journey. Follow #behindthebalcony to find out more throughout the year. Facebook Instagram
ThePlayersBellShakespeare the_players_
Parting is such sweet sorrow That I shall say goodnight till it be morrow.
LIVE-STREAMED Q&A WITH THE CAST OF ROMEO AND JULIET Wednesday 12 August 2015, 4.30pm – 5.15pm Join us online for a live-streamed Q&A with the cast of Romeo And Juliet and director James Evans. Ever wanted to know what it’s like to perform Shakespeare? Wondered what it takes to climb a balcony and perform a love scene in front of an audience? Or maybe you’re curious about how to become an actor? Ask your questions live, via the Bell Shakespeare website, in this fun, special event: bellshakespeare.com.au/learning
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Mainstage Productions Our dedicated school matinees allow your students the chance to access the best seats in the house for Bell Shakespeare’s mainstage productions at a time and price that suits your school best. Dedicated school matinees are scheduled at 11am for each production. Each of these performances will be followed by a post-show Q&A with the cast and accompanied by an extensive suite of online resources including interviews, videos, photo galleries, design images and classroom activities. Mainstage Booking Info HOW MUCH? All shows $30 per student Teachers at student prices One complimentary teacher ticket per 20 student tickets Ticket prices to Hamlet regional performances are at the discretion of the presenting venue. Please contact them directly for information. ONLINE RESOURCES An extensive suite of online resources will be available for each show including interviews, videos, photo galleries, design images and classroom activities. THE BEST SEATS IN THE HOUSE We allocate seating in order of receipt of booking form so if you want to reserve the best seating, make sure you book early. Special seating requirements must be advised at the time of booking. RUNNING TIMES We can only know exact show duration at the end of the rehearsal period, so the running times presented are estimates only. Please check our website closer to the date of performance for the exact running time. BOOKING EVENING PERFORMANCES Can’t take your students out of class? You can bring your students to a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evening performance at the schools price of $30 per student. There are a limited number of tickets available at this price so make sure you get your booking in early. BOOK NOW using the enclosed booking form and fax to 1300 552 271 or email learning@bellshakespeare.com.au Got a question? Call us on 1300 305 730 or visit bellshakespeare.com.au/learning
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Bell Shakespeare
As You Like It She loves him and he loves her. But she must dress as a he, and now there’s another her. Passionate and disarming, As You Like It is about a love so grand, our heroine is willing to break all the rules of romance to win the boy. Exiled to the Forest of Arden, Rosalind finds danger and mischief lurking behind every tree. She’s in love with Orlando, but must dress as the boy Ganymede. And so begins a gender bending courtship that shows that true love really does conquer all – even with a bit of cross dressing thrown in. The beguiling and chaotic As You Like It – one of Shakespeare’s most beloved romantic comedies – will be directed by Co-Artistic Director, Peter Evans, fresh from a stellar year in 2014 (Tartuffe, The Dream, Intimate Letters). Featuring an inspiring cast, including John Bell as the melancholic Jaques, and the the exuberant Zahra Newman (twice Helpmann Award nominated actress) as Rosalind. Anyone who’s ever risked it all for love, will love As You Like It. With George Banders, John Bell, Gareth Davies, Alan Dukes, Zahra Newman, Kelly Paterniti, Dorje Swallow, Tony Taylor & Abi Tucker
BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE DIRECTOR PETER EVANS RECOMMENDED FOR Years 8–12 HOW LONG? 2 hours and 40 minutes (including interval) CURRICULUM LINKS English: Language, Literature, Literacy; The Arts: Drama, Theatre Studies, Entertainment Industry SEASON 21 February – 10 May 2015 SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, PLAYHOUSE Dedicated schools matinees: Wednesday 18 & 25 March 11am* Other matinees: Wednesday 4 & 11 March 1pm CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE, PLAYHOUSE Matinee: Wednesday 15 April 1pm ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE, FAIRFAX STUDIO Dedicated schools matinee: Wednesday 6 May 11am* Other matinee: Wednesday 29 April 1pm *Followed by a 15-minute Q&A with the actors
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Hamlet A family torn apart by murder, a son burdened with the truth and the task of avenging his father, and a country on the brink of war. Anguish, passion and desperation collide in this tragic telling of Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark who is tormented by the impossibility of his dilemma, and who remains one of theatre’s most fascinating characters. Damien Ryan, returning to Bell Shakespeare following the critically acclaimed Henry V in 2014, will deliver a new production of Hamlet, infused with the passion, contemplation and emotion that Shakespeare’s compelling poetry cries out for.
BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE DIRECTOR DAMIEN RYAN HAMLET NATIONAL TOUR AND REGIONAL ACCESS PROGRAMME To support the national tour of Hamlet, our team of arts educators will visit regional venues presenting complimentary workshops to help students prepare for the show they’re booked in to see. Workshops cover plot, characters, design aspects and key insights into the production so everyone can get the best out of their intheatre experience. Contact your local venue to book your complimentary workshop. HAMLET NATIONAL TOUR DATES
With Josh McConville & Matilda Ridgway
10–11 July Orange NSW
RECOMMENDED FOR Years 9–12
14 July – 1 August Melbourne, Ballarat, Nunawading & Mildura VIC
HOW LONG? 2 hours and 30 minutes (including interval) CURRICULUM LINKS English: Language, Literature, Literacy; The Arts: Drama, Theatre Studies, Entertainment Industry SEASON 10 July – 6 December 2015 ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE, FAIRFAX STUDIO Dedicated schools matinee: Wednesday 22 July 11am* CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE, PLAYHOUSE Dedicated schools matinees: Tuesday 20 & Thursday 22 October 11am* SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, PLAYHOUSE Dedicated schools matinees: Wednesday 4, 11 & 18 November 11am* Other matinees: Wednesday 25 November 1pm Wednesday 2 December 1pm *Followed by a 15-minute Q&A with the actors
6–15 August Albany, Bunbury & Perth WA 18–31 August Dubbo, Newcastle, Gosford, Port Macquarie & Lismore NSW 2–9 September Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Mackay & Townsville QLD 12–17 September Darwin & Alice Springs NT 22–26 September Launceston & Hobart TAS 29 September – 6 October Warragul, Bendigo, Warrnambool & Frankston VIC 8–10 October Griffith & Wagga Wagga NSW 13–24 October Canberra ACT 27 October – 6 December Sydney NSW For full region and venue details visit bellshakespeare.com.au/learning
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Bell Shakespeare
The Tempest There’s a storm raging within Prospero, almost as violent as the storm he conjures around his remote island. Exiled twelve years earlier, Prospero is a powerful magician, still seething with anger and a desire for revenge having been banished to his island and usurped by his brother Antonio. And now that brother has been stranded on the same island. From such furious beginnings erupts Shakespeare’s magical journey of liberty through redemption. Gripping in its beauty and whimsy, The Tempest is a delightful tale of cavorting spirits, music and merriment, love and loss, and finally reconciliation and forgiveness. John Bell, who has performed in The Tempest three times but never directed it, celebrates Bell Shakespeare’s 25th anniversary by undertaking this enchanting tale. A superb cast, led by Brian Lipson, will capture the lightness and beauty of one of Shakespeare’s last and greatest works. With Robert Alexander, Matthew Backer, Felix Gentle, Brian Lipson, Arky Michael, Hazem Shammas, Maeliosa Stafford, Damien Strouthos & Eloise Winestock
BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE DIRECTOR JOHN BELL RECOMMENDED FOR Years 9–12 HOW LONG? 3 hours (including interval) CURRICULUM LINKS English: Language, Literature, Literacy; The Arts: Drama, Theatre Studies, Entertainment Industry SEASON 19 August – 18 September 2015 SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, PLAYHOUSE Dedicated schools matinees: Tuesday 1 & Thursday 3 September 11am* Other matinees: Wednesday 26 August 1pm, Wednesday 9 & 16 September 1pm *Followed by a 15-minute Q&A with the actors
Learning 2015
Special 25th Anniversary offer for teachers In the last 25 years over one million Australian students have seen a Bell Shakespeare production. That wouldn’t be possible without the support of you, our loyal teachers. To celebrate our 25th Anniversary we’re giving you a special thank you offer. When you make a school booking for 2015, you can access a concession rate subscription package, giving you a discount of up to 16% on standard tickets. HOW TO BOOK Book your schools tickets by completing and returning a Learning booking form then call 1300 305 730 and quote JAQUES to book your discounted subscription. For more details on subscription packages visit bellshakespeare.com.au
2015 Special EVENTS Script to Stage A DIRECTORS PRESENTATION From the script to the stage, our directors, along with cast and creatives will present the provocative ideas and inspiring conversations that contribute to the production you see on stage. As You Like It with Peter Evans Sydney Opera House, Playhouse 17 February, 6.00 – 7.00pm The Tempest with John Bell Sydney Opera House, Playhouse 25 August, 9.30 – 10.30pm (post show Q&A) In Conversation with john Bell In 2015, John Bell will take part in a series of conversations ranging from the influence of Shakespeare on contemporary culture, to the history and impact of Australian theatre. We’re delighted to announce an exciting programme in 2015.
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Bell Shakespeare
Professional Learning DISCOVERING THE TEMPEST
PD ON DEMAND
Discover the rich and magical world of The Tempest as Bell Shakespeare leads you on an exploration to uncover insights into this newly added HSC syllabus text.
Want a specialised Professional Learning session designed specifically for your needs, held where and when you want it?
A full day of Professional Learning will start with a practical assessment of the play, its characters and language and end with a special Q&A session with John Bell, director of The Tempest, giving you an understanding of his approach to directing this play.
In 2015, we’re once again pleased to bring you PD On Demand. You decide what play or aspect of Shakespeare’s work you’d like to focus on. You decide what dates and times work best for you and your colleagues and we’ll send one of our expert arts educators to your school to hold a specialised session for you. Running from two hours up to a full day, you and your colleagues are guaranteed to get just what you need.
Places are limited so book early! WHEN? 13 March 2015 HOW MUCH? $165 per teacher (incl. GST) WHERE? Bell Shakespeare’s Rehearsal Room, 18 Argyle Street, The Rocks, Sydney TRAVEL INCENTIVE Teachers whose school is located more than 100km from Sydney can take advantage of a 20% discount. Please let us know when you book. MAKE A NIGHT OF IT Book tickets to Bell Shakespeare’s As You Like It on 13 March 7.30pm at the same time as booking Discovering The Tempest and you can access $35 tickets, that’s a more than 50% discount! Directed by Co-Artistic Director Peter Evans with John Bell as Jaques, As You Like It is the perfect end to your day with Bell Shakespeare. Discounted tickets are limited – book early to avoid disappointment. BOOK NOW using the enclosed form and fax to 1300 552 271 or email learning@bellshakespeare.com.au
ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS: • Organise at least 12 teachers from your school or area to participate • Decide on your topic and aims for the Professional Learning session • Decide on three date options and times. • Allow at least six weeks notice for preparation and content development We’ll lock in the details and one of our expert arts educators will contact you to design the session content. ENQUIRIES AND BOOKINGS Contact Bell Shakespeare on 1300 305 730 to discuss costs and dates, or email learning@bellshakespeare.com.au I have always found Bell Shakespeare to be, by far, the best PD for teachers and students. The energy and knowledge your people bring to each task is rare and powerful. John Cole, Mackillop Catholic College, ACT
Got a question? Call us on 1300 305 730 or visit bellshakespeare.com.au/learning Bell Shakespeare is a BOSTES endorsed provider of institute registered professional development for the maintenance of accreditation at Proficient Teacher. Scope of endorsement: all standards of the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the level of Proficient Teacher for the curriculum areas English and Drama.
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Regional Teacher Scholarship
Supported by the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation
Applications open Monday 13 October 2014
The Regional Teacher Scholarship gives 12 teachers the opportunity to travel to Bell Shakespeare HQ in Sydney for an intensive four days of tailored Professional Learning. It’s a chance to hone your Drama and English teaching skills, learn innovative techniques for teaching Shakespeare and see live theatre. It’s also a perfect opportunity to build lasting networks with other teachers in regional and remote areas, and with Bell Shakespeare.
Applications close Friday 21 November 2014, 5pm
Since 2007, 84 teachers have been recipients of our Regional Teacher Scholarship, passing on the benefits to their colleagues, students and local community. To this day we are in regular contact with them as they act as Shakespeare ambassadors in their communities. We have been able to work with many again in the form of residencies, masterclasses and in-school performances. In 2014 we are searching for the next 12 recipients to take up the task of becoming a Shakespeare champion in their region. If you are currently teaching English or Drama in a regional or remote school and can demonstrate how you and your school community will benefit from the programme, we encourage you to apply. All teachers’ travel, accommodation and Professional Learning expenses are covered.
Successful applicants will be notified Friday 5 December 2014 Dates of Scholarship 19–24 March 2015 (inclusive of travel) How do I apply? Go to bellshakespeare.com.au/learning to download guidelines and an application form and fax to 1300 552 271. Got a question? Call 1300 305 730. This is an incredible, and unique PD experience that should most definitely be considered by all teachers of Shakespeare, or drama/ English in general... So as far as a PD goes this has been the best learning experience I’ve ever had. Liam Geary, Terang College, VIC
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Bell Shakespeare
Resources Shakespeare Unbound In partnership with ABC Splash Share Shakespeare’s greatest scenes and soliloquies, performed by some of the country’s finest artists with your students, with this free, broadcast-quality video series created by Bell Shakespeare and ABC Splash. Shakespeare Unbound is made up of 12 scenes from six of Shakespeare’s most famous plays: Macbeth, Othello, Hamlet, Romeo And Juliet, Julius Caesar and The Tempest. Each video is paired with a director’s commentary that unpacks the meaning of the scene for students so you can access the highest quality resources for your classroom whenever you need them. Each scene has been brought to life on film by some of Australia’s best known theatre actors, including John Bell, Kate Mulvany, Damien Ryan, Hazem Shammas, Damien Strouthos and Miranda Tapsell. All 24 Shakespeare Unbound videos are available for free at ABC Splash: splash.abc.net.au
Online Resources An extensive suite of online resources are uploaded throughout the year for each Bell Shakespeare production. Designed to both prepare students for viewing each production and then take them deeper into the experience after the performance, resources include: background information, videos, interviews, photo galleries, design images and classroom activities. Plus you can also access and explore resource materials from past productions and online projects, including, our suite of Google resources for Shakespeare’s 450th birthday, live-stream Q&As , #MacbethExperiment and more.
Learning 2015
It was a fantastic way to introduce a lot of our kids to live theatre and to Shakespeare! They were talking about it for the rest of the day. Jackie Henneberger, Caroline Chisholm School, ACT They really enjoyed the performance. It stimulated a lot of discussion and has set a new vitality inside the classrooms. Lorelle Scott, Bremer State High School, QLD
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Bell Shakespeare has time and again proven itself to be a professional, well renowned company who continue to deliver innovative programmes that are tailored to contemporary student audiences. Thank you! Rebecca Grant, Emmaville Central School NSW Brilliant - really makes it easier for us to teach when there is the support of a company like Bell. Lauren Swan, Donald High School, VIC
Keep The Conversation Going Sometimes conversations about Shakespeare go on longer than the time you spend with us. Once our actors and arts educators have left your school, or you’ve left the theatre, you can still stay in touch.
Start the conversation and we’ll answer. Where to find us: Facebook BellShakespeareTeacherNetwork ThePlayersBellShakespeare
We encourage students to like The Players page on Facebook, follow them on Instagram or log onto their blog to read up on where they’ve been, what they’re up to or start up a discussion of their own.
Instagram the_players_
And for teachers, we’d love you to stay connected via our Bell Shakespeare Teacher Network on Facebook. It’s the online home for Bell Shakespeare teachers across Australia, a chance for you to connect with us, each other, ask your burning Shakespeare questions and share in a wealth of resources about Shakespeare.
@bellshakespeare
Website
bellshakespeare.com.au/learning
learning@bellshakespeare.com.au
Telephone
1300 305 730
At Bell Shakespeare Learning we love getting feedback from teachers and students about what impact our programmes are having in your school. Take a look at some of the great feedback we received in 2014 and feel free to send us your stories!
Fax
1300 552 271
Post
PO Box 10, Millers Point, NSW 2000
Blog
bellshakespeare.com.au/meettheplayers
Youtube BellShakespeare
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Bell Shakespeare
Ask Us Anything It doesn’t look like Actors At Work is coming to my town next year, does that mean we miss out on Bell Shakespeare’s Learning Programme for 2015? Not at all! As Australia’s national touring theatre company, we do our best to reach as many areas of Australia as possible. If we aren’t touring with Actors At Work to a town near you, we might still be able to visit with an interactive Student Masterclass on a play of your choice (see p.7); a residency with one of our experienced arts educators for a week or two (see p. 7); or you can attend a regional access workshop for Hamlet at a venue near you (see p. 13). We also run Professional Learning sessions for teachers (see p. 16). Call us to find out how your school can be a part of our extensive programme in 2015!
My students aren’t studying A Midsummer Night’s Dream or Macbeth – why should I book Actors At Work? Our Actors At Work shows provide a unique live theatre experience for your students. If they’ve never studied Shakespeare, seeing our young professional actors perform their condensed, fun and highly interactive versions of the plays will build your student’s enthusiasm for studying his works in the future. If they are already familiar with Shakespeare, the performances are excellent for furthering your student’s understanding of the characters and plays. Here at Bell Shakespeare we believe that Shakespeare’s plays were meant to be seen and performed!
Help! I’ve just realised the date I’ve booked for your incursion clashes with school camp and there are no other dates that suit our schedule, can we cancel? Any cancellations for an Actors At Work performance must be made in writing, no less than eight weeks before our scheduled visit date. As per our Terms and Conditions the deposit is non-refundable. If a cancellation is made less than 8 weeks before our scheduled visit, the school is liable to pay Bell Shakespeare the full amount of $1190 per cancelled show. Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions on page 22.
We’d love to book an Actors At Work show but our school is too small so we can’t afford it. You don’t have to miss out! If you don’t have enough students to cover costs we recommend contacting other local schools in your area to see if they’re interested in a combined performance. In regional areas we sometimes perform at a small school with students from other local schools in attendance to help reduce per student costs. We’ll arrange the performance and payment with the main contact and you’ll just need to let us know the total number of students attending from each school. Not sure where to start? Give us a call and we can help.
Help! I have extra students who need to attend the performance of Romeo And Juliet – can we change the number of tickets we’ve booked? Yes, you are able to make changes to your booking for any of our in-theatre performances up eight weeks before the performance date. You can reduce by up to 10% of your total booking and increase as much as you’d like, pending availability. Your final invoice will be due six weeks before the performance date and after that time no further changes or cancellations can be made to your booking. Our stage doesn’t meet your space requirements, where else can your actors perform? The space required for our Actors At Work shows is a clear, flat floor space that’s 8 metres across and 6 metres deep. Although the actors can certainly perform on a stage in a theatre setting, if this isn’t available they are more than happy to perform on the floor space of your gym/hall, in a large combined classroom, a common room, or a library – any space that’s indoors, and has enough space for your students to be seated in front of the performance area. Check with us if you’re unsure.
One of my students has a question for The Players but they didn’t get a chance to ask them after the show, how can they get in touch? If students don’t get a chance to ask a question of The Players during our post-show Q&A, or have seen one of our in-theatre productions and have burning questions about the balcony scene, or anything else to ask related to the Bell Shakespeare Learning Programme, they can contact us on Facebook or Instagram. Don’t forget we’ll be live-streaming a Q&A with The Players and Director of Romeo And Juliet on Wednesday 12 August, 4.30pm – 5.15pm (see p. 10). Teachers and students are also welcome to email us at any time at learning@bellshakespeare.com.au Does the cost of your programmes include GST? All of our live performances are GST exempt, which includes our Actors At Work performances and in-theatre performances. Professional Learning Programmes and Student Masterclasses incur GST, which is indicated in the cost details in this brochure and on your invoice. Got more questions? Call us on 1300 305 730.
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Bell Shakespeare’s Learning Showcase at Sydney Opera House
The Bigger Picture We know what we are, but know not what we may be. Hamlet, Act 4, Scene 5 We know that Shakespeare’s plays have the capacity to allow people, of all ages and from all walks of life, to see themselves reflected and transformed. That’s why our Learning Programme extends far beyond the classroom and the opportunities in this brochure, and why we’re committed to providing free or subsidised access to the power of Shakespeare, for the most marginalised and disadvantaged Australians, every year. Our Actors At Work shows travel almost 50,000km annually, through every state and territory, to deliver Shakespeare directly into some of the most isolated towns across Australia. Our regional and remote residency programme enables us to place arts educators in rural, remote and Indigenous communities for up to two weeks at a time, delivering specialised programmes designed in consultation with the schools. We’ve done everything from entire school introductions to Shakespeare for K–12, right through to staging an adaptation of Romeo And Juliet on an AFL field in Tennant Creek blending Shakespeare’s text with local Aboriginal languages.
We work with young men and women in Juvenile Justice centres, introducing them to Shakespeare through Actors At Work, followed by a five-week workshop focusing on a specific Shakespeare play, which sometimes even concludes with the once-shy participants performing scenes in front of their families and fellow inmates. Our Hearts In A Row programme offers individuals from disadvantaged schools and community groups a row of seats to a Bell Shakespeare mainstage production, as well as programmes, drink vouchers and a special preshow talk with an arts educator. Over 4,500 recipients have benefited since 2005, including individuals from The Big Issue, Melbourne City Mission and Punchbowl Boys High School. This is only some of what we do each year. As a not-for-profit organisation that has been built on a foundation of giving, we’re only able to continue to provide these opportunities through the generous support of trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships and private donors. To find out more visit bellshakespeare.com.au/support
BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
and inform Bell Shakespeare.
Bookings for all Bell Shakespeare Learning Programmes must be made using the booking form provided with this brochure. To request another booking form, please email us at learning@bellshakespeare.com.au or download one from bellshakespeare.com.au/learning
ACTORS AT WORK
school contact information will be shared with Sydney Opera House. 5. MELBOURNE SEASON ONLY: I understand that my school contact information will be shared with Arts Centre Melbourne.
Please read carefully the terms and conditions to which you are agreeing. Changes and cancellations to bookings cannot be accepted over the phone and must be made in writing via email, letter or fax. The booking forms a binding agreement between Bell Shakespeare and the school, and the school is liable to make payments by the due dates. Bell Shakespeare will endeavour to accommodate any subsequent request for changes but reserves the right to retain the original arrangements and charge the full fee. Cancellations by Bell Shakespeare will result in rescheduling at a mutually agreed time or Bell Shakespeare will refund any payment made by the school.
1. PAYMENT: A $250 non-refundable deposit per performance is to be paid within 14 days of booking. According to student numbers, final payment will be invoiced after the performance and is due within 14 days. 2. CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations made within 8 school weeks of the performance date will result in the full minimum fee ($1,190) being payable by the school.
STUDENT MASTERCLASSES AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING 1. PAYMENT: Full payment is due within 14 days of the booking being processed and invoiced by Bell Shakespeare.
It is the booking teacher’s responsibility to ensure student numbers are accurate, payment is organised and the school is notified of the booked activities. If a booking teacher leaves the school, it is their responsibility to pass all information of the booking to a new contact teacher before they depart,
IN-THEATRE PERFORMANCES 1. PAYMENT: A 25% non-refundable deposit is to be paid within 14 days of booking. Final payment is due 6 weeks before the performance. 2. CHANGES TO NUMBERS: Prior to 6 weeks before the performance date tickets can be reduced by a maximum of 10% of the original booking only. No changes can be made less than 6 weeks before the performance (ie. school is liable for total cost if changes/cancellation are made within this time). 3. CANCELLATIONS: Once a booking has been confirmed by receipt of a booking confirmation sent by Bell Shakespeare, the school is liable to pay the total cost of the original booking. 4. SYDNEY SEASON ONLY: I understand that my
2. CANCELLATIONS: No refunds will be given for cancellations made within 14 days of the masterclass date. PRIVACY By providing my contact details, I understand that Bell Shakespeare may contact me about this and future relevant Learning Programmes in my area. All programmes and dates correct at time of printing.
Photography credits: Pierre Toussaint pages 3, 12, 13, 14, 15 Sarah Nguyen page 6 Prue Vercoe page 21
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Thank you to our partners LEADING PARTNERS
Regional Communities Partner
MAJOR PARTNERS
Official Wellbeing Partner
National Schools Partner
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
Perth Season Partner
Canberra Season Partner
COMPANY PARTNERS
CORPORATE MEMBERS
CBRE COMMUNITY PARTNERS Accommodation Partner
Wine Partner
Legal Partner
Official Catering Partner Sydney
Aesop Community Partner
Public Affairs Advisors
Printing Partner
Paper Partner
Special Event Partner
Digital Partner
®
Special Event Partner
GOVERNMENT PARTNERS
Bell Shakespeare is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW.
Outdoor Media Partner
The following trusts and foundations’ support enables us to make a genuine impact across the country. Bill & Patricia Ritchie Foundation Collier Charitable Fund E B Myer Charity Fund Gandel Philanthropy Ian Potter Foundation James N Kirby Foundation Limb Family Foundation Mundango Charitable Trust The Pratt Foundation Scully Fund Tim Fairfax Family Foundation Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation Weir Anderson Foundation
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Bell Shakespeare is assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.
Bell Shakespeare Learning Initiatives 2012–2015 is supported by the Australian Government Department of Education.
Level 1, 33 Playfair Street The Rocks NSW 2000 Australia PO Box 10 Millers Point NSW 2000 Australia T 1300 305 730 E learning@bellshakespeare.com.au BellShakespeareTeacherNetwork ThePlayersBellShakespeare the_players_ @BellShakespeare Bell Shakespeare bellshakespeare.com.au/LEARNING
This brochure is printed on Nordset from BJBall Papers. Nordset is an environmentally responsible paper produced from FSC® Mixed Sources Chain of Custody (CoC) certified pulp from well managed forests, is Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) and made Carbon Neutral. Nordset is manufactured by Nordland Papier, a company certified with environmental management systems ISO 14001 and EMAS, the EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (Reg.No.D-162-00007) Nordset has also been awarded the EU ‘Flower’ eco-label certification.