SHAKESPEARE IMMERSION PROJECT 

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

This is a unique opportunity for selected students to gain insight into Shakespeare by working with members of the best classical theatre company in North America. Students come to Wharton Center and analyze the text, explore the language, and examine character, as well as participate in a variety of theatre activities and movement exercises designed to enhance the learning experience. The week will culminate with the students performing an abridged Shakespeare play on Wharton Center’s Pasant stage. 

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 the following spring. Tickets and bus transportation are provided by the Stratford Festival to support this program.  

While students must provide their own transportation to Wharton Center each day, there is no charge to the student or parent for participation. Light snacks and dinner will be provided each day.  

Dates and Times  

The dates for the Fall workshop are TBA. Typically, the program runs Monday through Saturday, from 3:30–7:30pm.

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