Meet Valentine and Speed, Shakespeare on the Lawn
Meeting up with Year 9’s George and Cleo as they rehearsed on the Chapel lawn, was a brilliant insight into the language and meaning of one particular scene from this year’s Shakespeare On The Lawn The Two Gentlemen of Verona.
We joined them as they discussed their characters, the meaning behind some of their lines and general interpretation of what Shakespeare hoped to convey through his characters Valentine (George) and Speed (Cleo).
Talking with them about the language used in this play, helping them to understand what’s happening and what the intention of particular scenes is in relation to not only what’s happening then, but how it connects to the rest of the play, helps students understand their characters’ roles throughout the play – not just in one particular scene.
Miss Mayes spent time explaining how with any Shakespeare play we find rhyme and prose, we see one character interpreting another incorrectly, explaining the need for our young actors to suggest to the audience in movement and gesticulation, not just voice.
George and Cleo shared their thoughts on their characters and the upcoming performances.
Cleo said
“The biggest challenge is being able to multi-task in terms of showing expression on your face, moving your body and position as well as speaking a language that doesn’t come naturally! I’m sure it will become easier as rehearsals continue, and Miss Mayes helps us to understand what some of the language means, and encourages us to think about how we should be acting those moments and scenes so that the audience understands too.”
George added,
“Once you understand the language a little more, it’s much easier to perform the scenes – that’s why rehearsals are so great, it just gets easier and we enjoy it more every time.” He continued, “It becomes really fun once you can see clearly how the scene should work, what you should be doing – it’s like these rehearsals unlock the play for us!”
Cleo and George both agreed that the one thing they were most worried about was getting their lines wrong on the evening, but said that they felt confident that if that were to happen it could only be down to nerves as they’re taking time to ensure they know the play inside and out. “The play isn’t one scene, it’s all of them put together, and they have to become one collaborative piece.” shared Cleo.
Looking ahead to the performances, George said, “It’s going to be my first performance in front of such a large audience, I’m excitedly nervous about it. I’m really hoping this is going to lead on to more opportunities for me in Drama, so I’m going to do my absolute best.”
Cleo agreed, “We’re both going on to study Drama at School, so really, this is just the beginning for us.”
The Two Gentlemen of Verona will be performed on the Chapel Lawn on Tuesday 2 and Wednesday 3 July. A ticket link can be found here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/woodbridge-school-drama
