CA State Thespian Festival 2026

Think Shakespeare is stiff, stuffy, and only performed with the most proper of English dialects? Think again! Modern audiences often struggle to understand the similarities between Shakespearean characters and people alive today, partly due to the structure of the verse, old-fashioned slang, and references to events that occurred long ago. When we don't understand something, it's easy to think it's boring and irrelevant. But the enduring legacy of Shakespeare is that his stories, characters, humor, heart, and observations of human behavior still ring very true in modern times if you can decode the text and find the meaning underneath. In this workshop, we will speak the speech trippingly on the tongue and put the words of Shakespeare into a modern context by working on scenes both in their original form and in your own words. We will also explore how Shakespeare used sounds, verse, and language to help actors understand their characters, relationships, and place in the story. By the end you will realize just how many times you've seen a Helena, Hamlet, or Hal in your favorite movies and TV shows (and maybe also in your own life). I am passionate about helping young actors find the fun in Shakespeare in ways that will benefit them, whether they aspire to tread the boards at The Globe or present at the Golden Globes.

Think Shakespeare is stiff, stuffy, and only performed with the most proper of English dialects? Think again! Modern audiences often struggle to understand the similarities between Shakespearean characters and people alive today, partly due to the structure of the verse, old-fashioned slang, and references to events that occurred long ago. When we don't understand something, it's easy to think it's boring and irrelevant. But the enduring legacy of Shakespeare is that his stories, characters, humor, heart, and observations of human behavior still ring very true in modern times if you can decode the text and find the meaning underneath. In this workshop, we will speak the speech trippingly on the tongue and put the words of Shakespeare into a modern context by working on scenes both in their original form and in your own words. We will also explore how Shakespeare used sounds, verse, and language to help actors understand their characters, relationships, and place in the story. By the end you will realize just how many times you've seen a Helena, Hamlet, or Hal in your favorite movies and TV shows (and maybe also in your own life). I am passionate about helping young actors find the fun in Shakespeare in ways that will benefit them, whether they aspire to tread the boards at The Globe or present at the Golden Globes.

This dynamic, studio-based workshop invites actors to expand their physical storytelling using the Laban Movement Framework. Participants will explore effort, space, weight, and flow to develop more nuanced, embodied character choices. The session also integrates the Liz Lerman Critical Response Process, equipping students with structured, artist-centered feedback tools that promote growth, specificity, and ensemble trust. Ideal for actors seeking to deepen their physical work while strengthening their collaborative skills.

Designed for experienced student leaders, this interactive workshop empowers theatre students to deepen their leadership impact within their troupes and school communities. Participants will explore advanced leadership strategies including ensemble-building, inclusive decision-making, conflict navigation, event planning, and mentoring younger artists. Through hands-on activities and collaborative problem-solving, students will leave with practical tools to strengthen their programs, amplify student voice, and lead with creativity, integrity, and purpose.