Have you ever heard of the Big Five? These are the animals big-game hunters consider being the most dangerous to follow on foot.
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ON A SAFARI
I was lucky enough to spend New Year’s Eve 2018 with the Big Five. Of that group, we never caught sight of the Cape buffalo. And I definitely was neither hunting the animals, nor on foot. In my opinion, shooting the Big Five nowadays should only involve a camera.
The approach to Shakespeare resembles the progression towards one of the Big Five. Here is what I mean: First, the canon of Shakespeare is regal like the leopard. Also, a similar theatrical rule summons the might of the lion. Last, this custom bellows as powerfully as the elephant. Equally, the scholars, plus the experts surrounding his work can be as dreadful as a charging black rhino. But, at the same time, they can be temperamental like the most dangerous of any Cape buffalo.
It’s enough for even the hardiest of hardened teachers, including directors, hesitate to undertake these plays. Especially if you’re responsible for introducing the man, as well as his œuvre, to the younger generation.
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THE BIG FIVE
As a self-taught Shakespeare director, teacher, and playwright for Kids, each time I approach a new Shakespeare project for youth, I often confront many qualms. For example, there is the nagging fear that with each performance, the Shakespeare expert will call me out with a barrage of criticisms. Notably, asserting the incorrectness of my approach. But worse still, that my strategy may possibly do damage to young minds.
Similarly, with gnawing self-doubt, I often ask myself, “Who am I to introduce Shakespeare to youth?” For one thing, I never studied the Bard of Avon in college. Instead, I performed in only two of his plays. The truth is, I started to like his work after I began directing Kids in Shakespeare productions.
Luckily, I allayed most of my fears, because until now, I flew under the radar. Reason being, the role of the director of a small youth group in Austin, Texas, USA, doesn’t raise many flags. However, the project, Global Hamlet, from ImprovEd Shakespeare abruptly pushed me out into the world on a grander scale.
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CONCLUSION
All of a sudden, I now introduce myself as a person with original ideas, innovative techniques, and compelling approaches invaluable to Shakespeare enthusiasts. Additionally, I discuss with lesser-known judges of Shakespeare lore. Informing them of my purpose, plus providing encouragement for their ideas, techniques, as well as approaches to matters involving the Bard of Avon.
All things considered, I don’t advise attempting to see the Big Five without an expert guide. However, I absolutely recommend venturing into the scary, unnerving, yet simultaneously exciting world of Shakespeare on your own. Although professional guides serve a crucial function, William Shakespeare didn’t write for them. Instead, he wrote for the people. In the final analysis, it is your own interpretation of the work that matters.
Happy New Year! I wish you a fearless 2019!
Andee Kinzy
ImprovEd Shakespeare Founder & Director
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Each fall and spring, ImprovEd Shakespeare develops a new production for live performance. In honor of the traditional Renaissance traveling troupe, during a period of a few weeks, we present Kid-friendly plays at various venues around town. Our Players, between 3rd-11th grade, gear themselves with playful, as well as engaging interpretations of works by the Bard of Avon. Suitable for all ages, each performance runs for about an hour.
Furthermore, these shows are always FREE. However, we gladly accept Donations! Additionally, visit ImprovEd Shakespeare, Shakespeare for Kids by Kids on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter. And don’t forget to click on our BLOG for the stories behind these videos.
