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By Heart’ workshop. In the workshop, an actor will take you through games and techniques from the
world of theatre, designed to change the way you think about Shakespeare. You will not be judged
during the workshop; it’s all about joining in, learning some new skills, getting to know your fellow
contestants and having fun. The atmosphere needs to be safe and supportive, so your attention and
good behaviour is required at all times.
The audition
At some point during the workshop you’ll be taken out, along with six or seven other contestants, to
perform your speech in front of one another and the judging panel. In the audition room you will be
given a very brief warm-up session to relax you. It will be important to show your support for each other
by being respectful at all times, but particularly during the auditions.
To score highly you need to perform your speech off by heart, but there will be someone in the room to
prompt you, should you need it. Try to think of the judges and other contestants in the room as friends
who wish you well and want you to give your best.
The results

The judges will select one winner from each group of 25 to go through to the next stage. Group winners
will be filmed at the heat performing their speech a second time.
At a later date a judge will watch films of the group winners and decide on nine contestants (one from
each day of auditions) who will go forward to compete in the final. If you are selected to go through to
the final we will let you know by 15 December 2011.
Who are the judges?
The judges are professionals from the world of Shakespeare and theatre. Most of them are trained
actors and theatre directors and many are experienced in working with young people.