Hey there, fellow actors and Shakespeare enthusiasts!

It's been another whirlwind week at Shakespeare & Company, filled with revelations, challenges, and a whole lot of learning. Here's a glimpse into my world of rehearsing a Shakespeare play, and more importantly, the lessons I'm gleaning from this incredible journey.

**The Rehearsal Room Magic**

Diving into Shakespeare's text is like unearthing hidden treasures. I've been doing more text analysis than ever before, and it's astounding how much I'm learning about my capabilities as an actor. Working with such rich, heightened text was intimidating at first, but there’s an indescribable thrill in getting lost in a scene, completely carried away by the circumstances. It's a testament to the power of Shakespeare's language and a source of immense pride for me.

**The Director's Influence**

Our director, who I admire immensely for his brilliance, was unfortunately out with COVID for five days. In his absence, we had a series of guest directors who each brought their own insightful perspectives to the table. Their contributions were invaluable, but having our main director back was like regaining our guiding star. His return brought back a familiar rhythm and depth to our rehearsals, reaffirming the unique role a director plays in shaping a production.

**Learning from the Cast**

Every day, I'm in awe of my cast – a group of astoundingly talented actors. Their diverse experiences, ranging from decades-long Shakespeare veterans to those excelling in comedy and character work, make this ensemble extraordinary. We’ve cultivated an environment of mutual respect and support, constantly ensuring everyone feels heard and valued. It’s a beautiful thing to witness and be a part of.

**The Physical Toll**

On a more personal note, rehearsals have been physically demanding – six days a week of intensive work. While I anticipated this level of physicality, living it is a whole different ball game. My knees have been under constant care, my ankles are mysteriously sore, and by the end of each week, I'm physically drained. It's a reminder of the dedication and endurance this art demands.

**Life in Lenox**

Lenox, with its quaint charm, has its lonely moments. I miss my husband terribly, and the limited cell service here doesn't help. The cold weather limits activities outside rehearsals, leaving little room for much else. But hey, I’m definitely not venturing out into the snow!

**A Lesson on Audience Awareness**

Now, to an important lesson that's been on my mind: understanding your audience. This tour is primarily educational, with performances in schools and workshops for students. Recognizing that each audience is different is crucial, as it dramatically influences how we approach our performance. For instance, with a young audience of middle and high school students, we emphasize character names more clearly to help them follow the story. We also have to be mindful of the adult references in Shakespeare’s work, ensuring our content is age-appropriate. This aspect of performance – tailoring our art to our audience – is not just a skill but an essential part of our craft. It’s about connecting, resonating, and making an impact.

Through these experiences, I’m reminded of theatre's transformative power. It's more than just a performance; it's a medium for connection, education, and growth. I hope my insights offer some food for thought and inspiration in your own acting journey.

Stay tuned for more stories from my Shakespearean adventure.

Best,

Darius A. Journigan

A peek at our rehearsal schedule!