71 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 413-648-SHEA

MSF ZOOM WORKSHOP SERIES: 'Why Playing Bad is SO Good”

Friday, January 17, 2025, 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm
Peering into the Bard's problem Characters Facilitator: Nia Gwynne (Actress) Presented by the Montague Shakespeare Festival

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR WORKSHOP

Nia Gwynne has worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) extensively, playing some notorious Shakespearean characters along the way, including Goneril in King Lear and Tamora in Titus Andronicus. Nia trained at RADA and her career spans theatre, film and television, Nia brings a wealth of experience to this workshop. Her credits include roles in the BAFTA Award-winning film Pride, as well as Darkest Hour alongside Gary Oldman. On stage, she has worked with the RSC, Young Vic, National Theatre Wales, and many more, honing her ability to breathe life into complex, morally ambiguous characters.

This Zoom session, titled "Why Playing Bad is SO Good," invites participants to delve deep into some of Shakespeare's dangerous and morally intricate characters. Whether you are an actor, a Shakespeare enthusiast, or someone fascinated by the human psyche, this workshop offers an opportunity to explore the darker corners of the Bard's work and understand why playing a villain can be one of the most rewarding experiences in theatre.

What to Expect from the Workshop:

  • Exploring the Villain's Mindset: Gain insight into the psychology behind Shakespeare's villains. Nia will guide you through an exploration of characters like Tamora, Goneril, and Apemantus, revealing the motivations that drive them and the complexities that make them both detestable and fascinating.
  • Character Depth and Nuance: Discover how to bring nuance to these 'bad' characters, moving beyond simple villainy to find the humanity in their actions. Learn techniques to portray their complexity, making them more than mere antagonists.
  • Interactive Exploration: Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with Nia, asking questions, participating in readings, and receiving personalized feedback. Whether you choose to participate or simply observe, this workshop is designed to deepen your understanding of character development and emotional portrayal.
  • Finding Freedom in Darkness: Understand why actors often find playing villains liberating and creatively fulfilling. Nia will share her experiences portraying some of Shakespeare's darket roles and how embracing these characters can lead to a deeper, more powerful performance.
  • Community Engagement: Connect with fellow Shakespeare enthusiasts who share an interest in exploring the darker side of the Bard's plays. Share your thoughts, experiences, and insights in a supportive environment.

Acting Credits:

  • King Lear (RSC): Role - Goneril, Director: Gregory Doran
  • Titus Andronicus (RSC): Role - Tamora, Director: Blanche McIntyre
  • Timon of Athens (RSC): Role - Apemantus, Director: Simon Godwin
  • Henry IV Parts 1 and 2 (RSC) Role Lady Mortimer and Doll Tearsheet Director Greg Doran
  • Coriolanus (RSC/National Theatre of Wales) Role - Sicinius, Director Mike Pearson and Mike Brookes
  • Darkest Hour (Film) Role - Alice Simpson, Director Joe Wright
  • Pride (Film): Role - Gail Director: Matthew Warchus

About Nia Gwynne: Nia trained at RADA and has worked extensively across theatre, film, and television. Her theatre credits include roles with the RSC, Young Vic, National Theatre Wales. On screen, she has appeared in productions such as The Long Call (ITV), Temple (Sky), and The Chelsea Detective (Amazon). Nia's workshops focus on embracing the complexities of Shakespeare's characters, allowing actors and enthusiasts alike to find depth, nuance, and personal connection within the text.

Join us for an engaging and eye-opening exploration of Shakespeare's tricky characters, and discover why playing bad can be so good.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors and Underwriters

Australis Aquaculture • Artisan Beverage Cooperative • Benjamin Company • Berkshire Brewing Company • Cohn and Company Real Estate Agency • Community Credit • Common Capital • Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts • Connecticut River Internists • Dean's Beans • Easthampton Savings Bank • FirstLight GDF Suezna • Gill Tavern • Gilmore and Farrell Insurance Company • Goff Media • Great Falls Harvest • Green River Festival • Greenfield Community College • Greenfield Cooperative Bank • Greenfield Savings Bank • Loot • Massachusetts Cultural Council • Montague Bookmill • Montague WebWorks • Northeast Solar • People's Pint • Rainmaker Consulting • The Rendezvous • Solar Store of Greenfield • Stobierski and Connor • Told Video • True North Transit • Turn It Up

Exciting News for A Happening V: The Bestiary

Cloudgaze and Eggtooth Productions are thrilled to announce that we have received generous grants from the Mass Cultural Council as well as the Community Foundation of Western MA to support our 2025 Immersive Arts Festival, “A Happening V: The Bestiary.”

This festival will transform the Shea Theater into an exploration of theme, hosting installations, music, theatrical performances, and movement pieces, featuring the collective contributions of over 50 local artists. Audiences will experience otherworldly environments and narratives inspired by Aesop's Fables, George Orwell's Animal Farm, newly imagined cautionary tales, and creature myths of all origins.

Thanks to the Mass Cultural Council for their vital support this year.We'd also like to thank the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts for their support in the form of a Flexible Funding grant. We couldn't do this work without you!