Drama workshops and production of Aristophanes' Clouds at Warwick University

Two workshops organised by Saffi Grey and Clare Gibbings took place on Wednesday 22nd February 2012 and Wednesday 29th February 2012. They were aimed at ‘A’-Level students studying Classics and Drama/Theatre Studies from local state schools. The event involved a day of Greek Theatre lectures, drama workshops, and a performance of the Classics Society play. The workshops were supported by a Performance Grant awarded by IATL (Institute of Advanced Teaching and Learning), University of Warwick. There were over 140 attendees from nine local schools.

• George Salter Academy, West Bromwich
• Cadbury Sixth Form College
• King Edward's Five Ways School
• Coundon Court School, Coventry
• St Edmund Campion School, Birmingham
• King Edward VI, Stratford-upon-Avon
• Perryfields High School
• Ashlawn School
• Wolverhampton Grammar
• Dudley College

Outline of the workshops:

• quiz
• lecture on Greek theatre by Saffi Grey, on the origins and basics of Greek theatre, Greek Comedy and in particular Aristophanes’Clouds and the modern adaption that would be performed in the afternoon.
• drama games, led by Classics Society representative, undergraduate student, or cast member

• 'Students thought the facilities were lovely, and really enjoyed going to a University to explore what it would be like. We were clearly guided as to where things were, and found everyone very helpful. It has re-confirmed for them that they want to go to University, and appreciated exploring whilst feeling comfortable with who they were with.'
• The performance was hilarious! It was really useful for the students to see how you had modernised the context (something they will also do for Lysistrata but without re-writing any part of it). It really appealed to their sense of humour (they loved, loved, loved the Harry Potter puppets!) so you pitched it just right. Well done to all involved - the students said they haven't laughed so much in ages!