Shakespeare Immersion Project

This fall, up to 25 carefully selected middle and high school students from Mid-Michigan area schools will be invited to spend a week immersed in Shakespeare with the extraordinary actor/teaching artists from the Stratford Festival of Canada.

This is a unique opportunity for selected students to gain tremendous insight into Shakespeare by working with members of the best classical theatre company in North America. Over the years, all involved with this project have declared it a success. Students come to Wharton Center and study Shakespeare in depth. Activities include text analysis, exploring the language, and examining character, as well as participating in a variety of theatre activities and movement exercises designed to enhance the learning experience. Students will be asked to keep journals and engage in reflective writing. The week will culminate with the students performing an abridged Shakespeare play on Wharton Center’s Pasant stage to an audience of family, friends, and school officials. 

Previous acting experience is not necessary.

Students who successfully complete the week will also be invited to attend a Shakespeare performance at the Stratford Festival of Canada in Spring 2024. Tickets and bus transportation are provided by the Stratford Festival to support this program. 

While students are required to provide their own transportation to Wharton Center each day, there is no charge to either the student or parent for participation. Light snacks and dinner will be provided each day. Admission is free to the recital on Saturday, November 11.  

Dates and Times 
Monday–Friday, November 6–10, from 3:30–7:30pm
Recital: Saturday, November 11, 3:30-7pm

What students have said about the Shakespeare Immersion Project.

“I learned a lot of skills I can use in all genres of theatre and made a ton of friends!”

Sophia McQuown, Marshall High School

“I feel as if the other students I met helped me feed my passion for Shakespeare, which is awesome!”

Kelly Morgan, Grand Ledge High School

“I definitely became more comfortable expressing myself because the atmosphere was very open and I can carry that confidence into my life.” 

Noelle Simmons, Dansville High School