After Juliet

Introduction

'After Juliet' is a powerful play especially suitable for use with groups studying Drama and English from Year 10 upwards, though strong Year 9 groups may also enjoy comparing parts of it to the original 'Romeo and Juliet' on which it draws. Studying and performing 'After Juliet' does not necessarily require a detailed knowledge of Shakespeare's play though some knowledge of it will certainly enrich their study. The activities included here are designed to cater for students who have never come across the original as well as those who know it quite well.

The stylised nature of the language of 'After Juliet' presents a particular challenge for students; many will find reading it a 'cold' and demotivating experience. The activities presented here recognise this challenge and focus on bringing the text to life. In this way, students will come to better appreciate what the play might look and sound like to a theatre audience and, as a result, achieve a greater understanding of it as a dramatic text.

Activities devised by Martine Bligh and Rosie Flint, with Andy Kempe.