Unpacking and discussing classical texts will always bring up challenging ideas around identity for modern audiences. When looking at the cultural context of many of these texts, we know that ideas on race, gender, sexuality and other protected characteristics were very different to our own and are often derogatory or negative. This can be problematic for your students, also making it more challenging to teach.
In this CPD session, we will be looking at how we can engage in safe, honest and open discussions on these topics through the use of active analysis, in a similar way as we would in the rehearsal room. We will use simple techniques that you can take back to the classroom. The session will be focused around the themes found in “Of Mice and Men” and discovering the relevance of the play in a modern context but also how we as a society have moved forward. There may be themes within the text that are triggering and we will navigate these with sensitivity and care. The joy within a rehearsal room environment is that we are discovering the world of the play as we create. The text is a guidebook and our creativity is the essence.
Led by Ibraheem Toure, an actor from the Royal Shakespeare Company and also one of the founding members of Piece of Cake Theatre Company that strives to uplift, promote, and give opportunities to creatives of the global majority in the performing arts industry.