Shakespeare in a Box: King Lear

As an introduction to our Shakespeare unit in my 12th grade AP English class, I divided the kids into two groups. One group prepared King Lear, and the other prepared The Taming of the Shrew. I gave them 4 class periods to prepare, then we had two days of performances. The kids added their own touches to the props in the box and suggested list of additional props. Other teachers brought their classes, and everyone had a great time.

Back in 2000, when Carl Martin first started selling his Home Shakespeare Festival, I bought his "Macbeth". I was going home for Christmas, and told friends and family to get ready to put on a play. The directions and set-up of the kit are fantastic, and couldn't possibly make it any easier. It even tells you which parts can be played by the same people, if you don't have enough bodies. And don't worry about costuming - we just set out a tablefull of my mom's aprons and scarves and told people to dress themselves for their part!We had all ages participating, from 5 year olds (who played Birnham Wood) to retired people. Everybody from total hams (my six-foot brother as Lady McBeth) to shyer types (who had roles as prop managers and small one-line speaking roles) got into it. People still tell me it was one of the best parties they've every gone to - where else could you see someone holding a cabbage, and have to pretend it's a skull? Though I haven't had a King Lear party yet, I highly recommend the Home Shakespeare Festival as a total hoot. Don't forget to have someone videotape it! This is TOTALLY not-just-for-kids!

I am teaching King Lear for the first time next year. Having taught R/J, Macbeth, and Richard III, I found King Lear to be a little more intimidating. Teachers are constantly looking for anticipatory sets and this is the one! It gives the major facts in an abridged form while using the original language. It is also compeletly student driven (from director to actors). Casting is flexible from 6-12; for bogger classes I plan on staging two productions. Originally designed for parties (students will hardly believe people do this in their off-time), this is a great way to introduce one of Shakespeare's best and most tragic plays!