My name is Brendan Ward and I’m one of the ten acting-interns here at Shakespeare Santa Cruz. This internship is the best way I can imagine finishing my undergraduate education, and its because of the skills and knowledge I have acquired thus far. Looking back at what I knew 5 weeks ago to what I know now, I cannot dream of ever trying to pursue a career in theatre without taking part in this internship. Being surrounded by all of these incredibly talented actors has given me the chance to ask them questions, talk to them, see what decisions they made at my age, and ask them what NOT to do. Of course, they say there are no answers, but there is advice, and that is what everyone has given me if I ask.

I am in The Lion in Winter, directed by the incredible Richard E.T. White. Being present in the rehearsal process has given me a huge store on knowledge about a professional work environment, which I have been lacking. I learned how far to push and risk in rehearsal. I’ve seen how actors can respectfully disagree with the director and I’ve watched how there disagreements lead to great compromises that add a great deal to the show. I have also been able to just watch and absorb great and different processes from all of the actors in the show. I get to watch how these actors use active verbs, objectives, raise stakes, and listen. It may sound passive or boring, but it is incredibly useful because it gives me tools to steal. Yes, I am a thief.

For the past few weeks our intern company has been in rehearsal for La Ronde, which will be out on the Glen in mid-August, and I have officially been challenged. I am The Poet, and I find myself having to constantly remind myself to consider what I have been watching for the past 4 weeks in rehearsals for The Lion in Winter and to go back to simply using active verbs, objectives, and getting something out of the other characters. There is a bit of sexual material in the play and my mind wants to focus on that, but my great director, Kirsten Brandt, is always asking me for my intention in the lines. I recall a scene in Lion, where Marco Barricelli as Henry is condemning his children: he is in a state of anger, defeat, and betrayal, but Marco doesn’t play “angry,” he is much more complicated than that. He is attacking his children with his words. This is one of many examples I get to watch everyday and learn from. I am a young actor with a lot to learn, and I am so honored to be in this classroom here at Shakespeare Santa Cruz.

–Brendan Ward