Get involved in QSE for 2008

CORE ENSEMBLE - APPRENTICESHIP -

GENERAL AUDITIONS -  VOLUNTEERS

You probably already know that the Queensland Shakespeare Ensemble (QSE) offers outstanding professional classical theatre training in Queensland. Our trademark acting and voice classes will return in 2008 - sign up for notices by entering your email address in the 'Join our mailing list' box on this page.

You may also be aware that QSE's production and workshop program has resulted in several firsts in the last two years: 2005's Comedy of Errors was the world's first fully re-gendered production of a Shakespeare play, while in 2006 Shakespeare's Briefs became the first time in Australia that a working courtroom was turned into a Shakespeare theatre. QSE's Arts in Community Enhancement program was also the first time that an incarcerated population in Australia has performed a Shakespeare play, with a group of inmates of the Borallon Correctional Centre (Ipswich) performing The Tempest under the direction of the QSE core ensemble. And QSE remains the only theatre company in Australia to offer voice training from a qualified Linklater voice teacher.

Now there are more opportunities to get involved with one of Brisbane's fastest-growing and most exciting independent theatre companies. The majority of the 2007 core ensemble will be continuing with the company into 2008, but there will be a few spaces available for experienced, versatile and dedicated actors. In addition, the QSE Apprenticeship program for emerging artists will continue, providing mentorship, training, coaching and other opportunities to a small cohort of actors. Actors who are not interested in committing to the core company at present, but would like to be considered for 2008 performance opportunities can apply for a general (non-core) audition. There are also opportunities to get involved with the company behind the scenes in our Volunteer program. These opportunities, and how to apply for them, are outlined below.

QSE Core Ensemble

The ideal QSE Core Ensemble member will have extensive acting experience, and a passion for Shakespeare's language in fully embodied performance. Previous training in the Linklater voice method is preferred, but not essential.

Core Ensemble members are expected to make QSE training and performances a priority. In return for training, Core members agree to put in time towards the running of the Ensemble.

Core Ensemble members are given first priority in casting and for all paid QSE work.

In 2008, QSE will be seeking 1-2 new Core Ensemble Members. Selection will be by audition.

QSE Apprenticeship

QSE will again be offering a small number of apprenticeships (4-5) to emerging artists. The ideal QSE Apprentice will have some theatre experience and a commitment to the creation of Ensemble theatre and the environment in which it can thrive. A passion for Shakespeare is a must, and a commitment to the development of local communities is a plus.

The apprenticeship runs from January 2th through to the end of November, with an approximate commitment of 10 hours per week, and costs $500 (one full scholarship is available). For this fee, apprentices receive:

• five day residential intensive ($1000 value)
• text and voice training (available to public for a total of $375)
• advanced actor training (with the core ensemble, not available to public, value $300)
• Theatre of the Oppressed training (TBC; value $500)
• ongoing mentorship from QSE core ensemble members
• secondment to a variety of areas of the company, including performance

Apprentices will be engaged in the discussion and creation of transformative theatrical experiences based on classical principles. Interns will also gain work experience in the running of a company. Performance opportunities for Interns may arise in the course of the year, but these are not guaranteed. In 2007, apprentices performed in Much Ado About Nothing.

Admission to the Internship program is by audition.

Thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous benefactor, we are able to offer one scholarship for the QSE Apprenticeship. The recipient of this scholarship will be able to undertake the apprenticeship described above free of charge. Applicants for this scholarship must be either in their final year of studies (prior to graduating) at an Australian University or have graduated from an Australian University in the last two years.

Award of the scholarship is based on interview and audition.

QSE Volunteer program

Like any not-for-profit organization, QSE relies on the contribution of volunteer members and supporters for the smooth running of its activities. Volunteers are especially valuable around production times, when we need assistance with such activities as operating the box office, disseminating information, and taking bookings. We would also welcome expressions of interest from individuals with IT, accounting, or marketing expertise wanting to be involved with an energetic theatre company on a voluntary basis.

QSE volunteers receive free tickets and invitations to discussions and special events that would normally only be open to Core members and Interns.

Anyone interested in becoming a QSE volunteer should send an email to info@qldshakespeare.org or leave a message on (07) 3365 3269.