CYCLONE Rep Theatre Company is returning to venues throughout Ireland with a repertory of four Shakespeare Sessions adapted from schools’ Junior and Leaving Certificate curriculae.
Cyclone Rep, a theatre-in-education company based in Cork, looks to create “an exciting and multi-faceted theatrical experience that engages and entertains, enriches and educates”.
Each play is abridged to two hours, its key themes and of course, characters plus the story arc being respected.
Performances will take place in 10 theatres across the country throughout the academic year, followed by a tour directly to schools. Limerick is early on the list, with Cyclone Rep opening for four days at Lime Tree Theatre on Monday January 18, staging a different play each day.
in Cyclone Repertory Company
Photos: by Joleen Cronin
Monday 18 at 9.45am and 1pm, The Romeo and Juliet Session: modern performers are directed on stage by the bard himself whose 16th century attitudes and demeanour clash with today’s. Arguments, discussion and hopefully, enlightenment ensue.
Tuesday 19 at 9.45am and 1pm,The Merchant Session: the most interactive element, “with an entertaining and informative synthesis of analysis and performance”, all the time highlighting what a fine comedy it is.
Wednesday 20 at 9.45am and 1pm, The King Lear Session: five unlikely characters tell the story of Lear and make a journey of self-discovery.
Thursday 21 at 9.45am and 1pm, The Hamlet Session: the Danish prince as ‘everyman’ is explored from several perspectives. This adaptation is centred by “outstanding performance, engaging analysis, humour and audience interaction”.
According to Cyclone Rep, a workshop is woven throughout the show, encompassing audience participation, discussion on main themes and Q&A sessions with the characters. There are resource packs available through the educational company.
