English          Koplik 

Hamlet Dramatization

Aim:  Your group will create a production which combines the traditional script 
of Hamlet  with original, contemporized  monologues.  In doing so, you will be
applying  the ideas and themes of the play to modern  problems.  The production
will adhere to the following requirements and format: 

1.  Select a scene, or a portion of one, which runs 3-5 minutes reading time
(no longer).   
The scene should include three or four extended (8 or more lines) soliloquies 
or monologues.   

2. Assign parts to the members of the group; if you need extras, borrow 
individuals from other groups to read the lines.   Reacquaint yourselves with
the scene, identifying important ideas, themes or plot developments.  You will 
be acting out  this scene with the assistance  of a script (use note cards or
small sheets of paper ), but you should attempt to memorize at least part of it. 
At the very  least, you must read with expression that is both appropriate 
and convincing. 

3.  Each group member must, at some point in the production, break out of the
scene (which will freeze at that moment in response to a clap or whistle) and
step forward. The timing of these Tableaux will be decided by your group in
advance; it may be easier to break out in the middle of an extended monologue, 
but you may choose any point in the action.   The character will then deliver a 
brief (30 second) monologue in modern English which somehow ties the action
on stage at that moment to a modern idea.  A good example of this would be Hamlet,
in the middle of his "To be or not to be" soliloquy, stepping forward to talk
about Kurt Cobain's death or, more generally, about why the teen suicide rate
is so high in this decade.  This monologue should be improvised; know generally
what you're going  to say, but don't memorize!  It may be humorous or serious, 
so long as it's relevant.  When the character is finished, he or she will step
back into place, and the scene resumes until the next character steps out. 

4.You may use props and costumes if you wish, but they are not required.  Clear 
body language (stance and gesture) is the best prop of all!  

5.You are expected to use maturity and discretion in what you say and do while
on stage.   

6.Try to remember never to have your back toward the audience, even if the scene
would seem to dictate that. To be audible and visible, always maintain at least 
a 45 degree angle to the audience.