Shakespeare:

conquer the classics.

Emily Jenkins is one of the UK's leading experts in modern Shakespeare performance. She supports actors and directors throughout the creative process; from initial planning, role preparation and rehearsals, through to production or filming. She has worked at Shakespeare’s Globe since 2012 , freelances as a coach and consultant for stage and screen, and has a wide range of private clients from household names and established directors, to training actors.

As a seasoned Shakespeare coach and consultant, Emily helps make sense of the wit and wisdom that has captivated audiences for centuries and bring it to life for modern audiences.

Contact Emily Book a time

"Emily's deep academic understanding of the canon combined with extensive experience of theatre in performance makes her an invaluable consultant on any Shakespeare show."

Guy Unsworth, theatre director.

"Emily was GREAT – she is passionate and so knowledgeable. She made me go from a zero level of Shakespeare to loving and enjoying it. She made it make sense."

Shakespeare’s Globe Actor's residency

“Emily made Shakespeare more accessible and less intimidating, creating a safe, judgement-free environment."

Mamadou Jollah, actor & producer

Acting Shakespeare:
how to play the person in the poetry?

For many actors, working on a Shakespeare play can feel restrictive or alienating. The 'rules' that might have been taught us at school or in training can feel incongruous to an actor who has to practically embody these, and wants to focus on the emotional truth of their character.

Over years of supporting actors at all experience levels, and having worked with some of the top Shakespeare actors and directors in the country, Emily understands the challenges - both practical and psychological - that often accompany working on a Shakespeare play.

Her work centres around an in-depth knowledge of Shakespeare's text and language, and how it can be used practically to help actors access deeper emotional truth and confidence, so you can feel free to make choices that work for you.

Auditions - classical monologues

Preparing for drama school or role audition process? Emily can help you make strong choices, handle cold reads, and stand out to casting directors and audition panels.

Character study & role preparation

Supporting actors in text study, character development and performance, Emily can be with you all the way from pre-rehearsals to opening night..

Introduction to verse & prose

Learn how Shakespeare left clues in his plays to help his actors. Emily's approach unlocks the text for modern actors.

Shakespeare on screen

Making Shakespeare's language and characters sing on screen through unearthing character psychology and emotion. Emily provides private and on-set coaching.

Shakespeare in depth & refreshers

For established actors and those who want to further their craft and understanding of Shakespeare's text. Emily designs her sessions to suit your individual needs and areas of interest.

Rehearsal coaching & workshops

Group workshops and lectures on Shakespeare's text and language, with a focus on acting Shakespeare. Emily is DBS certified.

Directing and editing Shakespeare: what's my version?

With so many editions of Shakespeare's plays available - from Folio to Quartos, to different modern publications - it can sometimes feel like a minefield trying to pin down your version of the play. Emily can support you in navigating this, and establishing a script that serves your production or film.

If you are a director or script editor working on a Shakespeare, or other classic play, she can support you in discussion, creative planning and script editing and adaptation to achiever your vision. As a successful playwright, director and screenwriter herself Emily understands the varying requirements of different mediums and can help create a script or screenplay that works for you.

If you choose, Emily can also join you in rehearsals to help elucidate complex passages or provide text and voice support for actors during rehearsal and production, or on-set during rehearsal and filming.
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Script editing and dramaturgy

Editing and adapating Shakespeare and his contemporaries to tell stories that connect with a modern audience.

Consultancy - accessing your vision

Supporting directors in pre-production planning. Through discussion, reading and research, find the creative and textual choices that honour your vision.

On-set & rehearsal support

Tailored to the requirements, genre, and style of performance, Emily can support you and your actors whilst giving you the space to creatively realise your project.

Shakespeare - a director's toolbox

About to direct a Shakespeare play or scene? Emily can provide crash courses in verse and prose, as well as a wealth of exercises and tactics to help you help your actors reach their full potential.

Text workshops

Group workshops and lectures on Shakespeare's text and plays for theatres and companies. Emily's work focusses on finding the clues within the text that can unlock character and emotion for modern actors.

Script Breakdown

Break down a script scene by scene to understand plot, story, character motivation, beats, and key moments.

Emily is proud to serve on the faculty for Higher Education at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, where she blends her passion for teaching with her deep knowledge of Shakespeare performance.

She began her journey as a text assistant in 2012, coaching actors on main house productions, and has since grown into the role of text practitioner at the Globe, specialising in the art of performing Shakespeare with a focus on the text itself.

She was President of Shakespeare training programme The Poel Event at the National Theatre and Central School of Speech and Drama, for four years, working with some of the industries leading actors, directors and voice specialists, including Papaa Essiedu, Erica Whyman, Sir Timothy West, Jeanette Nelson and Barbara Houseman.

In addition to her work at the Globe, Emily freelances as a Shakespeare coach and consultant, bringing her expertise to stage and film productions, as well as working with private clients who seek to dive deeper into the intricacies of Shakespearean language and performance.

Whether she's helping an actor unlock the emotional core of a scene or guiding a client through the tricky rhythms of iambic pentameter, Emily’s mission is to make Shakespeare come alive in fresh and exciting ways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Emily work with drama school auditionees or only established actors?

Emily works with actors at all stages of their careers. Whether you're an aspiring drama school student preparing for auditions or an experienced professional looking to refine a performance, Emily's coaching is designed to help you achieve your best results.

How are sessions conducted?

Sessions can be conducted either in person, online via video conferencing platforms, or on set or rehearsals if your team gives permission. This allows for flexibility regardless of location. All formats are equally effective, and Emily ensures a comfortable and focused environment tailored to your needs.

How long are the coaching sessions?

Coaching sessions typically last between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on your requirements. For those preparing for specific auditions or working on lengthy pieces, longer sessions can be arranged upon request.

How should I prepare for a coaching session?

For audition preparation, it is recommended that you provide any relevant material, such as scripts or monologues, in advance if possible. For drama school auditions, Emily will guide you in selecting appropriate pieces if needed. A willingness to explore and experiment is essential, as Emily’s sessions are collaborative and creative.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on the individual and their goals. Some clients benefit from a single session to fine-tune an audition piece, while others may prefer ongoing sessions to deepen their skills over time. Emily will work with you to determine the best approach based on your needs.

Do I have to based in the UK, to work with Emily?

No. Emily has clients across the globe; from Los Angeles and New York, to Australia and New Zealand. All sessions can be held online and Emily is practised at getting the best out of her clients. For international and on-set coaching, please contact Emily directly to enquire.