Theatre lovers may participate in the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point�s three-week Theatre in London course again this summer.

The course, sponsored by International Programs, will begin on Friday, June 11, and conclude on Wednesday, June 30. It will offer teachers and theatre lovers the opportunity to earn three graduate credits in English or theatre arts while viewing at least 10 plays, exploring London and traveling.

Participants will see a variety of productions ranging from Shakespeare to first run productions of new plays, classic revivals to musicals. Two years ago, for example, the shows included Shakespeare�s "Pericles" and "A Midsummer Night�s Dream," a first night production of Tom Stoppard�s "The Coast of Utopia," a revival of "Kiss Me Kate" with the Broadway cast, three new plays by British and American playwrights, and more.

Last summer the group saw Shakespeare�s "Henry V," Zefferelli�s delightful staging of "Absolutely (Perhaps)," Sherman�s new version of a Pirandello comedy, and an all-female performance of "Richard II" followed by an all-male performance of Sondheim�s musical, "Pacific Overtures."

The plays are viewed in some of London�s most historic theatres, including the National Theatre, the Barbican, the Royal Court, and others. The course also includes presentations by the group leader and British guest lecturers, including Robert Gordon, head of drama at Goldsmith�s College, University of London, Michael Ridings, the university of Edinburgh, Viv Thomas, University of Birmingham, and others. There will be a session at the new Globe Theatre as well as a guided historic walk through London.

This year�s leader is Professor James Stokes, an active researcher and scholar in England who will bring the breadth of that experience to his role as leader. Additional participants will include two or three other faculty members as well as undergraduate and graduate students.

Participants have two long weekends in which they may travel, attend additional productions, or explore London. In the past, individuals have traveled to Bath, Cornwall, the Lake District, St. Alban�s with its Roman Theatre, as far as Scotland, and even to Amsterdam and Paris.

The group stays at International Student House (ISH), a facility within walking distance of West End theatres, Oxford Street shopping, a galaxy of eateries, and the entire historic West End and Central London. ISH sits directly across from Regent�s Park, the largest walker-friendly park in London, and two subway stops are within a half block of ISH. The house also contains a travel office with an expert and friendly staff who will help participants arrange trips and outings.

Those interested in the program should apply as soon as possible. Enrollment information is available from International Programs, 715--346-2717; fax: 715-346 3591; e-mail: intlprog@uwsp.edu. For information about the content of the course or details about traveling and living in England they can contact the group leader, Jim Stokes at jstokes@uwsp.edu or 715--346-4342.

-30-

rg/vc/Theatre in London