THE RSC has been streaming its production of Richard III into classrooms with the help of Stratford College.
The Royal Shakespeare Company has been using the college’s state-of-the-art TV studio to stream the production into hundreds of classrooms around the country.
And students have been lending a hand to produce the live segments including an introduction, discussions, and a live Q&A.
Before the show started, the RSC’s Sophie Hobson was joined by Associate Director, Aaron Parsons, for an ‘in conversation’ interview to provide context for the play and the production. After the show, Sophie hosted a live Q&A with actors Rosie Sheehy – who played Anne in Richard III - and Micah Balfour, who played Hastings. Pupils watching were invited to send in their questions via email.
Digital Media Production, Photography, Graphic Design and Backstage Production Arts students from the college all took part in the project. They undertook a multitude of roles to make sure the broadcast was rehearsed, prepared and delivered.
Rocco Mareri, who is studying Digital Media Production, took on a variety of roles including camera operating, technical supervisor and floor manager.
He said: “I learnt how to use the cameras more, looking at technical details. We also had to set up equipment in different ways, like setting up our BSL (British Sign Language) studio and looking after the talent. It gave a big insight into professional standards.”
While Fiona Ingram, Head of Learning at the RSC, said: “It is great to be working with our local college and we really value the relationship we have. The equipment and resources are second to none as was the dedication of the students and the tutors supporting them. There wasn’t a moment when anyone dropped their concentration, all the students were very professional. We are proud to be part of the students’ development.”
College Lecturer, Sophie Jolly, added: “This was an incredible opportunity for our students to put theory into practice. The RSC’s schools’ broadcasts are watched by thousands of pupils all over the country so it’s important that our students worked to a very high level to deliver. Much of the technology we use is standard within industry, giving our students the practical skills to understand the environments they might encounter in their career.”
