Shakespeare Residency

During a performance residency, students participate in a full rehearsal process, scheduled in condensed form and work toward a performance of an abridged Shakespeare play or collection of scenes based on a theme.  For many, this experience will help students experience Shakespeare prior to any preconceived judgements and assist them in further learning of his and other literary works.

Taking on the role of performers, students are guided to experience the text from the inside: analyzing and synthesizing meaning from Shakespeare's words, considering character motive and relationships, and developing a character interpretation which they express for an audience in a rehearsed final performance.

Focusing primarily on students in grades 6-12, this program utilizes performative learning techniques to cultivate a strong sense of ensemble, personal presence, and excitement for Shakespeare’s language. 

• Collaborate with peers and teaching artists

• Explore and interpret language, story, and character

• Explore theme, tone, and story structure 

• Enhance ensemble and partnering work

• Encourage participants to grow and express themselves 

• Foster a sense of unity and community among participants

• Encourage active participation and encourage follow up discussions

Cause and FX’s teaching artists work in partnership with the classroom teachers. We encourage those teachers to be active partners and participants throughout the residency process. 

In past years, participating schools have included: Ho-ho-kus School on a residency entitled Storms

of Identity (focusing on the theme of identity using scenes from three of Shakespeare’s plays), Blairstown Elementary (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), Green Hills School (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), Hackettstown High School (Twelfth Night with a bilingual focus bringing Spanish echoes to some of the larger speeches).

Timing: Residencies are available throughout the school year, dates are subject to Cause and FX staff availability. Length of residency ranges from five (5) to fourteen (14) days (budget dependent) and have been structured  as all-day interactive, to single class, to after school sessions depending upon the determined structure. 

Size: Ideal sizes are for individual classrooms or groups of students between 15-25 students. 

Pricing: Cause and FX will work with the school or organization to schedule the residency once the budget for the residency is established. This will determine the structure and engagement of Cause and FX in your school.