Monday, September 10, 2018

Day 129 - Wednesday - two Classes and more Shakespeare



Today I complete the 8am class and start another 2 day session at 11am.  My supervisor does a formal evaluation on the first class, and I'm very happy with the way it goes.  The second class I'm not as content with although the students seem to enjoy it - the late nights are catching up with me!

I spend the afternoon catching up on an hour of sleep before we attend our final play "The Merchant of Venice".  An interesting production.  The (female) director apparently decided to reverse the Elizabethan practice of having female roles played by men.  She cast women in three of the male roles.  Shylock is amazing - with a beard and a voice in a low register it was difficult to realize we were watching a woman - in fact this was one of the best Shylocks I have ever seen.

Unfortunately for me, the women playing Antonio (the merchant in the title) and the Duke of Venice both have high pitched voices and, despite their costumes, are clearly women.  It may be politically incorrect to say so, but although the Antonio actress creates a strong character, I find this a gimmick that doesn't work for me.  Nevertheless, this is a strong play and despite the misgivings, I do enjoy it.

The temperature has continued to drop and by 10:45pm when the play ends, Vicky and I are both ready to return to the warmth of the RV.  One more class tomorrow but it's not until 11am so I get to sleep in.


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