The Royal Shakespeare Company will host a Summer Learning Residency in Stratford-upon-Avon, July 24–28, 2023.

This coming summer, during the week of 24-28 July (21-30 July with travel), the RSC will host 15 Davidson students in Stratford-upon-Avon for an immersive residency that focuses on page-to-stage processes.

A series of workshops will center on As You Like It, which will be in production at the main Shakespeare theater, and students will also see and discuss a new work, The Empress, in production at the Swan. It concerns colonialism during Victoria’s reign.

The dates of the residency coincide with the break during the Cambridge Program, so that students already in the UK can take advantage of it if they wish.

The residency, which will include workshops on all manner of production—from directing to rehearsing to scenic design—is appropriate for English, Theatre, History majors and more.

Here is a summary of work that students will do with theater professionals:

  • Work with and meet Actors and Directors from the RSC in their rehearsal rooms
  • See productions at a world-renowned theatre company
  • Learn about the Design process of As You Like It
  • Explore how RSC productions are directed and staged with text, movement and voice workshops
  • Go behind-the-scenes, take a backstage tour and visit the craftwork of the Costume Workshop

How To Apply

All those interested should apply, regardless of major or background in literature or theater. If we have a large number of applicants, some preference will be given to current sophomores and juniors, to students with relevant academic credentials (like English and Theatre students), and to students with relevant coursework (like a Shakespeare or early modern literature course or courses in acting, directing, or scene design).

Please note that this opportunity is only open to enrolled students. Students who will have graduated by the time this residency takes place will not be eligible due to college policies.

The application form is due by Friday, March 17.

Application Form

Travel & Cost Information

The residency and students’ flights and lodging will be covered by generous donations from individual donors like former college President Bobby Vagt ’69 and Ruth Anne Vagt, the Bacca Foundation Visiting Scholar and Artist Foundation, the Davidson Arts and Creative Engagement office, the English Department, Donna Peters ’89 and Jonathan Darsey ’90.

Students will be asked to contribute $500 each toward these expenses and will be expected to cover some of their meals. They should also plan to take $250 (or so) miscellaneous spending money.

Upon acceptance to the residency, students will be asked to reserve a place with a nonrefundable deposit of $100, which will be counted toward the $500 cost. Financial support will be available, however, so that no student should abstain from applying because of cost.

Please contact Sherry Nelson, Director of Davidson Arts and Creative Engagement, with questions at shnelson.davidson.edu.