For any student of the theatre, the “mecca” of their passion is located across the pond in London where dramatic pioneer William Shakespeare lived and created his world shaping masterpieces. Many actors who study their craft inspire to hone their skills where it all began.

For nine ambitious Hartt students, this fantasy is a 10-week reality coming true. These rising stars are studying acting at the Drama Studio London where they focus on the works of Shakespeare. The intensive program is held by the University’s Actor Training Program to prepare students for careers on stage or on camera.

Students are currently enduring an intense 10-week program that challenges the students academically, physically, and emotionally. They are spending their days reciting Shakespearian dramas and comedies, along with brushing up on the rich history of the Shakespearian area. Along with this overflow of new knowledge, the students are starting to realize differences in acting styles between American and British thespians.

A member of the Hartt school and trip participant Madeleine Stevens was asked by The Hartt School news to speak on her experience. She expressed that American acting is more about emotion and portraying a character above anything else. She compared this to the new style she learned in London where there is more of an emphases on the actual text. Stevens admitted the first couple days of technically demanding training was quite disorienting.

While the students are learning new things about their art everyday over seas, Stevens also spoke about her personal and spiritual experience during the trip. Madeleine along with other students admit that with only half of this trip under their belt they already feel the change in the way they operate.

“I’m learning to be a better actor and also relying on myself a lot more,” Stevens said, who is due to graduate in 2017.

The actors will be returning at the end of March. Many opportunities like this one are being offered after the completion of the London trip. Details are on The Hartt School homepage.

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