Shakespeare and Laban

Shakespeare's understanding of performance spaces - particularly that of the Globe - is written into the fabric of his plays. Rudolf Laban's movement practice unlocks the physical expressivity of the performer. This book uses Laban's practice to explore an exciting physical connection to Shakespeare's plays in performance. It provides an outline of Laban's key concepts and practices, a discussion of how these can expand and deepen our understanding of how Shakespeare's plays use space, time, and movement, and a wealth of practical exercises drawn from Laban's techniques. This handbook will prove invaluable for anyone performing, teaching, studying or simply wanting a new way to enjoy Shakespeare's plays in performance.

Jacquelyn Bessell is a stage director and actor trainer. She served as Head of Research at Shakespeare's Globe under Mark Rylance's tenure, and has taught in conservatoires on both coasts of the USA. She leads the MA/MFA Acting programme at the Guildford School of Acting, and is the author of Shakespeare in Action (The Arden Shakespeare, 2019).

Laura Weston is a dancer-choreographer, movement director and Laban practitioner. Her practice combines contemporary dance training with research into Laban's practices. She has taught and directed at Rose Bruford, Mountview, London Studio Centre and the Guildford School of Acting.