Session Title: Decolonizing Shakespeare
Learning Outcomes:
- Explain what decolonizing Shakespeare means
- Analyze examples of productions that have decolonized Shakespeare
- Evaluate the challenges associated with decolonizing Shakespeare
Materials Needed:
- Worksheets
- Access to online resources
- Optional – Computers/devices to access online resources
Time Needed: 45 mins – 1hr
Introduction (5 mins):
Welcome students to the session and explain what the topic is: Decolonizing Shakespeare. Explain the rationale for this topic – why is it important? Introduce the concept of decolonisation in the context of theatre, what does it mean?
Main Content (35 mins):
Explain the objective of the session - to discuss and evaluate the challenges associated with decolonizing Shakespeare.
Instruct the students to break into small groups. Provide each group with worksheets - a copy of the text and some discussion questions. Ask them to discuss the following:
- What does it mean to decolonize Shakespeare?
- What is the purpose and importance of decolonizing Shakespeare?
- What challenges are associated with decolonizing Shakespeare?
Following the breakout session, have each group share their conclusions, and facilitate a larger discussion to discuss the points raised.
Examples (15 mins):
Show examples of productions that have decolonized Shakespeare, such as:
- The Cast Offs
- The Lorax
- Rhapsody of the Black Dog
Share the following videos with the students to get more details on each production:
- The Cast Offs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pjh08dDih14)
- The Lorax (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81tGZC7hnMI)
- Rhapsody of the Black Dog (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-InT_n-_wE)
Plenary (5 mins):
Summarize the main points raised in the session. Ask the students to explain what they have learned about decolonizing Shakespeare and what were the biggest challenges that emerged.
Optional Homework:
Provide students with the following worksheet to deepen their understanding of the topic (https://www.britishcouncil.org/voices/decolonising-shakespeare-worksheet-activities).
End of Session (5 mins):
Thank the students for participating and remind them of any upcoming events/deadlines.
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END OF SESSION.