CSC's Second Annual Shakespeare Smackdown (SHAKE SMACK)!

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to perform on CSC's stage? After this past Monday's Second Annual Shakespeare Smackdown Scene and Monologue Contest, there are now 50+ middle and high school students hailing from schools in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens that can tell you exactly what that experience is like.

NextGen members Quiana and Carla,
the hosts of the Second Annual SHAKE SMACK

Weeks before the event, in groups of 1-5, participants received a pre-assigned scene from THE TEMPEST - this year's Young Company show - and began to rehearse. On the night of the event, they presented their scenes in the order that they occur in the play, so that for the audience, it was almost like watching a full production! 

The illustrious judges! From left: Director Jimmy
Maize, and actresses Ito Aghayere and Abbi Hawk.

Students looked forward to seeing the roles they were playing interpreted differently by their fellow "cast members" and could be overheard complimenting one another following the performance, as they mingled about in excited anticipation of the judges' decision. Special guests - cast members of the Young Company's production of THE TEMPEST - were also on hand to enjoy the performance and congratulate the participants. 

The first place winners, presenting Act 4 Scene 1 (Part B) from Cardinal Spellman High School in the Bronx

The second place winners, presenting Act 3 Scene 2 (Part B) from Harlem Academy Middle School in Manhattan

The third place winners, presenting Act 1 Scene 2 (Part D) from Cardinal Spellman High School in the Bronx

 First, Second, and Third place winners were awarded tickets to future CSC shows and workshops for their schools, and all participants were awarded a cool SHAKE SMACK tee-shirt to show off their achievement. 

Congratulations to all! 

Shake Smack!

"Watch thy back."