Reading English literature aloud: early 20th century
This course will be delivered online. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
Course Code: DVP021
Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Center for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
Come and enjoy reading aloud passages from novels by early 20th century writers in our Wednesday reading group. Set texts will be Down and Out in Paris and London- George Orwell, and The Birds and other stories- Daphne du Maurier. This unique course contains vocal warm-ups; discussion of novels, weekly prepared readings and sight reading skills.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
How we use pitch, pace and pause to tell stories. How we need clear diction for narrative as well as range and variety for vocal characterisation. The importance of good vocal delivery, powered by correct breathing techniques. We will always include an element of vocal warm -up at the beginning of the class and sight reading skills at the end.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
Demonstrate more confidence in the sound of your voice
Acknowledge a greater delight in 20th Century Literature by reading passages aloud and thus sharing stories.
Identify some key breathing and vocal techniques to assist reading in public.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is for all those who enjoy reading novels, and wish to develop greater confidence in reading aloud. You will have some ability with sight reading and if you are a non-native speaker, you must be fluent in English.
In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:
• Speak English fluently.
• Communicate in group situations.
• Give and receive constructive feedback.
• Read and respond to a range of texts.
• Take course notes for your own use.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
We will read in a large group together online. You will be expected to read and prepare passages in advance each week.
As part of the course content, your tutor may record your image for initial and ongoing assessment purposes. You are entitled to decline to participate in the recording of your image.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Please read in advance and bring a copy of Down and Out with you to the first class; the tutor will ask you to read a passage to assess your ability level. You will find a small hand mirror useful.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Any Voice or Speech course in the programme such as Storytelling for Business and Pleasure, or Voice Technique: Beginners
Please refer to our
full sequence of voice and speech classes at City Lit (click here) as you consider which area you would like to study next.
Vernon has been full-time academic staff in the City Lit DRADAS department since September 2005 .He is Programme Manager for the year-long OCN accredited Foundation in Drama course. He is also Tutor-Co-ordinator responsible for overseeing all Voice Speech and Communication courses the department runs, including interview-based courses such as the Radio Rep Company. He has responsibility for the City Lit Theatre Company, for whom he has also directed ten productions.He is a major presence in teaching on the accredited courses as well as on the open program.Vernon has an MA in Voice Studies from Central School of Speech & Drama, a PGCE from City University and BA (Hons) from Loughborough University. Previous posts include Head of Voice at the Academy Drama School and teaching at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art; ALRA; London Centre for Theatre Studies and The Courtyard Training School.He works for Channel 4 News in London and TRT World in Istanbul as a voice consultant to their broadcasters and journalists, as well as accepting private clients www.vernonthompson.co.uk Vernon produces and directs his own professional summer repertory company:www.londonrepertoryplayers.co.uk
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.