The recontextualization of Shakespearean scenes involves interpreting and presenting his works in new and innovative ways, often by placing them in different historical, cultural, or social contexts. This approach revitalises Shakespeare’s timeless plays and makes them more relevant to contemporary audiences and learners. This process can bridge the gap between the Elizabethan era and the modern world, providing fresh perspectives and deeper understandings of his themes and characters.
What is Recontextualization?
Recontextualization refers to the practice of adapting dramatic works to different settings, times, and cultural backgrounds while maintaining the integrity of the original text. This can include modernising the language, altering the setting, or introducing contemporary issues that resonate with today’s audience. Sometimes, recontextualization occurs without altering a single word of the original text. The significance lies in making Shakespeare accessible and relatable, allowing new generations to engage with his works meaningfully and critically.
Recontextualization in the Drama and Theatre Arts Classroom
Below are outlines for 15 well-known scenes from some of Shakespeare’s greatest works. The action of the original scene is briefly prefaced, followed by an extensive and detailed description of a possible recontextualization of this scene that students can explore in the classroom. From dystopian futures and virtual reality games to the Wild West and the seedy landscape of underworld crime families, the potential recontextualizations are both dramatic and varied, offering a wonderful opportunity for students to follow the outline, print out the script of the scene, and start exploring!
The Recontextualization of Shakespeare
Play: Romeo and Juliet
Scene: Balcony Scene (Act 2, Scene 2)
Characters: Romeo and Juliet
Action: Romeo professes his love to Juliet, who is on her balcony.
Recontextualization:
In this recontextualization of Romeo and Juliet’s famous balcony scene, the play is set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a devastating event that has left civilization in ruins. The once-thriving city of Verona is now a mere shell of its former self, with survivors banding together in rival groups to scavenge for resources and maintain a semblance of order.
Romeo belongs to one such group, while Juliet is a member of a rival faction. Despite the animosity between their respective communities, Romeo and Juliet have secretly fallen in love. In this reimagined balcony scene, Juliet stands on the remains of a dilapidated high-rise building, a remnant of the world that once was. The balcony, now a crumbling ledge, overlooks the ruins of the city.
Romeo, having infiltrated the rival group’s territory, professes his love to Juliet under the cover of darkness. He climbs the ruins to reach her, risking detection by the rival group’s patrols. Against the backdrop of a shattered moon and the flickering light of distant fires, the lovers share a moment of intimacy and hope amidst the bleak reality of their world.
Their conversation is interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps and the distant shouts of Juliet’s group members. Romeo must flee to avoid capture, but not before the couple makes a plan to escape the confines of their respective factions and build a life together in the wilderness beyond the city ruins.
As Romeo descends from the balcony, he navigates through the debris-strewn streets, dodging patrols and using his knowledge of the city’s layout to make his escape. Juliet, meanwhile, must confront the harsh realities of her world and decide whether to abandon the relative safety of her group for an uncertain future with Romeo.
Play: Macbeth
Scene: Dagger Scene (Act 2, Scene 1)
Character: Macbeth
Action: Macbeth hallucinates a dagger before deciding to kill King Duncan.
Recontextualization:
In this recontextualization of Macbeth’s iconic dagger scene, the play is set aboard a sprawling space station in a distant solar system. Macbeth, a high-ranking crew member, has been grappling with his ambition and the prophecy he received from a mysterious alien entity, foretelling his rise to power as the station’s commander.
The scene takes place in a dimly lit corridor of the space station, with the Earth visible through the reinforced windows, a reminder of the vast distance separating the crew from their home. Macbeth, alone and lost in thought, paces back and forth, his mind consumed by the prospect of seizing control of the station.
As he contemplates the mutiny, a holographic dagger materializes before him, flickering and glitching, a manifestation of his inner turmoil and the advanced technology that surrounds him. The dagger points towards the captain’s quarters, guiding Macbeth’s hand and solidifying his resolve to carry out the treacherous deed.
Macbeth’s soliloquy takes on a new dimension in this futuristic setting, as he grapples with the moral implications of his actions and the potential consequences for the crew and the mission. The weightlessness of the environment adds a surreal quality to his movements, as if he is suspended between his ambition and his conscience.
As he reaches out to grasp the holographic dagger, the scene shifts to the captain’s quarters. The captain, unaware of the impending danger, is engrossed in reviewing mission reports and monitoring the station’s systems. Macbeth, now committed to his course of action, enters the room, his hand hovering over his laser sidearm.
The recontextualization of this scene in a sci-fi space station setting heightens the tension and the stakes, as Macbeth’s actions not only threaten the hierarchy of power but also the delicate balance of the isolated community in the void of space. The advanced technology, such as the holographic dagger, serves as a metaphor for the psychological and moral complexities that plague Macbeth, while the vast expanse of space represents the boundless nature of his ambition.
As Macbeth stands on the brink of committing mutiny, the scene ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the audience to ponder the consequences of his actions and the ripple effects they will have on the crew and the mission.
Play: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Scene: The Play Within a Play (Act 5, Scene 1)
Characters: The Mechanicals and the Athenian Court
Action: The Mechanicals perform their comical version of “Pyramus and Thisbe” for the Duke’s wedding celebration.
Recontextualization:
In this modern recontextualization of the play within a play scene from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the Mechanicals are reimagined as an amateur theatre troupe participating in a contemporary fringe theatre festival. The festival, known for its experimental and unconventional performances, provides the perfect backdrop for the Mechanicals’ satirical adaptation of “Pyramus and Thisbe.”
The scene takes place in a small, intimate theatre space, with a minimalist stage setup and an audience consisting of festival-goers, theatre critics, and the Athenian court, now reframed as a group of influential industry professionals. The Duke and his entourage are seated in a VIP section, eager to see what this up-and-coming troupe has to offer.
As the lights dim and the performance begins, the Mechanicals take the stage, their costumes a mix of modern and classical elements, reflecting the play’s satirical tone. The troupe has adapted the tragic love story of Pyramus and Thisbe into a biting commentary on contemporary society, politics, and popular culture.
In this recontextualization, the character of Bottom, played by a talented comedian, becomes the central figure in the troupe’s satirical adaptation. His portrayal of Pyramus is exaggerated and over-the-top, poking fun at the tropes and clichés of modern romantic comedies and reality television. The other Mechanicals, each representing a different aspect of contemporary society, contribute to the play’s humor and social critique.
The Wall, played by Snout, is reimagined as a literal representation of the barriers and divisions that plague modern society, such as class inequality, political polarisation, and social media echo chambers. Snout’s performance is a clever commentary on the absurdity of these divisions and the need for unity and understanding.
Thisbe, portrayed by Flute, becomes a symbol of the modern feminist movement, challenging gender stereotypes and societal expectations. Flute’s portrayal is a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges faced by women in contemporary society.
As the play within a play unfolds, the audience at the fringe festival responds with laughter, applause, and moments of contemplative silence. The Mechanicals’ satirical adaptation strikes a chord with the diverse crowd, sparking conversations about the issues and themes addressed in the performance.
The Athenian court, initially skeptical of the troupe’s unconventional approach, finds themselves drawn into the play’s humor and social commentary. The Duke, in particular, is impressed by the Mechanicals’ wit and creativity, recognizing the importance of art in challenging societal norms and fostering dialogue.
As the performance concludes, the audience erupts in a standing ovation, acknowledging the Mechanicals’ talent and the power of their satirical adaptation. The troupe takes their bows, basking in the success of their modern take on a classic tale.
Play: King Lear
Scene: The Storm (Act 3, Scene 2)
Character: King Lear
Action: Lear rages against his daughters and the storm, descending into madness.
Recontextualization:
In this post-World War II recontextualization of King Lear’s iconic storm scene, Lear is reimagined as a retired military general, struggling to come to terms with the consequences of his decisions and the changing world around him. The scene takes place in a war-torn landscape, with the remnants of once-great cities serving as a stark reminder of the devastation wrought by the conflict.
Lear, his uniform tattered and his medals tarnished, wanders through the ruins of a bombed-out building, his mind haunted by the ghosts of his past. The storm raging outside mirrors the tempest within his own mind, as he grapples with the weight of his actions and the betrayal of his daughters.
In this setting, Lear’s daughters, Goneril and Regan, are reimagined as powerful political figures, eager to seize control in the aftermath of the war. They have turned against their father, seeing him as a relic of the past and a hindrance to their own ambitions. Cordelia, Lear’s youngest and most faithful daughter, has been exiled for her refusal to play their games.
As the storm intensifies, Lear’s madness grows, his words becoming increasingly erratic and nonsensical. He rages against the elements, calling upon the gods to strike down his ungrateful daughters and the corrupt world they inhabit. His loyal companion, the Fool, reimagined as a battle-weary soldier, tries to comfort him, but Lear is too far gone to be reached.
The scene is punctuated by flashbacks to Lear’s wartime experiences, revealing the decisions and actions that have led him to this moment. We see him as a young general, full of idealism and conviction, leading his troops into battle and making difficult choices in the heat of the moment. We also witness the toll these decisions have taken on him, as he struggles with the weight of responsibility and the loss of his comrades.
As the storm reaches its climax, Lear’s madness takes on a prophetic quality, his words becoming a searing indictment of the world he once fought to protect. He speaks of the futility of war, the corruption of power, and the ultimate meaninglessness of human endeavor in the face of an indifferent universe.
The scene concludes with Lear collapsing amidst the ruins, his mind and body broken by the weight of his experiences. The storm gradually subsides, leaving behind a landscape of devastation and a sense of profound loss. The Fool, his own faith shaken by the events he has witnessed, remains by Lear’s side, a symbol of the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Play: Twelfth Night
Scene: The Duel (Act 3, Scene 4)
Characters: Viola (as Cesario), Sir Andrew, and Sir Toby
Action: Viola, disguised as Cesario, is challenged to a duel by Sir Andrew.
Recontextualization:
In this Wild West recontextualization of the duel scene from Twelfth Night, the action unfolds in a dusty, tumbleweed-strewn town, where the law is enforced by the quick draw of a six-shooter. Viola, a young woman disguised as a cowboy named Cesario, has found herself entangled in a web of mistaken identities and romantic misadventures.
The scene takes place on the town’s main street, with wooden storefronts and hitching posts lining either side. The hot midday sun beats down mercilessly, casting long shadows and creating an atmosphere of tension and anticipation.
Viola, dressed in a cowboy hat, boots, and a dust-covered duster, stands at one end of the street, her hand hovering near her holstered gun. Opposite her is Sir Andrew, a brash and foolhardy cowboy, who has challenged Cesario to a duel, unaware that he is actually a woman in disguise.
Sir Toby, a mischievous and manipulative saloon owner, has orchestrated the duel for his own amusement and profit. He stands on the sidelines, a sly grin on his face, as he takes bets from the gathered crowd of curious onlookers and drunken cowpokes.
As the scene unfolds, Viola tries to reason with Sir Andrew, hoping to avoid bloodshed and maintain her disguise. She speaks in a low, gruff voice, her words carefully chosen to project an air of masculine bravado. However, Sir Andrew, spurred on by his own ego and the goading of Sir Toby, refuses to back down.
The two combatants slowly approach each other, hands twitching near their guns, eyes locked in a steely gaze. The tension mounts as the crowd falls silent, the only sound being the creaking of leather and the soft jingle of spurs.
Just as it seems that violence is inevitable, a sudden commotion breaks out in the crowd. Orsino, the wealthy rancher and Viola’s employer, rides into town on his magnificent stallion, accompanied by his posse. He has come to put an end to the duel and reveal Viola’s true identity.
In a dramatic confrontation, Orsino exposes Viola’s disguise and chastises Sir Andrew and Sir Toby for their foolishness. Viola, relieved but also embarrassed, removes her hat and lets her long hair cascade down her back, revealing her true gender to the shocked crowd.
As the scene concludes, Orsino takes Viola under his protection, while Sir Andrew and Sir Toby slink away, their plans for mischief and profit foiled. The townspeople disperse, buzzing with excitement and gossip, as Viola and Orsino ride off into the sunset, their relationship forever changed by the events of the day.
Play: Julius Caesar
Scene: The Assassination (Act 3, Scene 1) Characters: Julius Caesar, Brutus, Cassius, and the other conspirators
Action: The conspirators assassinate Caesar in the Senate. Recontextualization:
In this contemporary recontextualization of Julius Caesar’s assassination scene, the action unfolds in the heart of a modern metropolis, where political power and intrigue shape the course of nations. Julius Caesar, a charismatic and controversial world leader, is reimagined as the head of a powerful international organization, whose influence stretches across the globe.
The scene takes place in a sleek, high-tech conference room, situated atop a towering skyscraper that serves as the headquarters of Caesar’s organization. The room is a marvel of modern design, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city skyline, and state-of-the-art security systems protecting the occupants within.
As the scene begins, Caesar is seated at the head of a long, glass conference table, surrounded by his trusted advisors and allies. He is dressed impeccably in a tailored suit, his bearing confident and commanding, yet tinged with a hint of weariness from the weight of his responsibilities.
Unbeknownst to Caesar, a group of rebels, led by the idealistic Brutus and the cunning Cassius, has infiltrated the building, posing as members of his inner circle. These rebels, disillusioned with Caesar’s leadership and fearful of his growing power, have hatched a plot to assassinate him and seize control of the organization.
As the meeting progresses, the tension in the room grows palpable, with Brutus and Cassius exchanging furtive glances and subtle nods. The other conspirators, positioned strategically around the room, await the signal to strike.
Suddenly, Cassius rises from his seat, his hand reaching into his jacket to reveal a concealed weapon. In a flash, the other conspirators follow suit, drawing guns and knives as they converge upon Caesar. The room erupts into chaos, with Caesar’s loyal guards rushing to his defense, only to be cut down by the rebels’ superior numbers and firepower.
Amidst the mayhem, Brutus approaches Caesar, his face a mask of conflicting emotions. As he looks into the eyes of his former friend and mentor, he hesitates, the weight of his actions bearing down upon him. But the moment passes, and with a final, decisive thrust, he plunges his blade into Caesar’s heart.
As Caesar falls, the rebels quickly secure the room, their faces a mixture of triumph and trepidation. They know that their actions will have far-reaching consequences, and that they must now navigate the treacherous landscape of global politics and power.
The scene concludes with a final, poignant image of Caesar’s lifeless body, lying amidst the shattered glass and debris of the conference room. The rebels, their mission accomplished, flee into the night, leaving behind a world forever changed by their actions.
Play: Twelfth Night
Scene: The Love Triangle (Act 2, Scene 4)
Characters: Viola (as Cesario), Orsino, and Olivia
Action: Viola, disguised as Cesario, is caught in a love triangle with Orsino and Olivia.
Recontextualization:
In this modern high school recontextualization of Twelfth Night’s love triangle scene, Viola is reimagined as a new student who has recently transferred to Illyria High. To avoid unwanted attention and navigate the complex social dynamics of her new school, Viola adopts the disguise of a boy named Cesario.
The scene takes place in the bustling hallways and classrooms of Illyria High, a typical American high school with lockers lining the walls, posters advertising upcoming events, and students hurrying to their next classes. Viola, dressed in baggy jeans, a hoodie, and a baseball cap to conceal her feminine features, is quickly drawn into the school’s intricate web of relationships and rivalries.
Orsino, the handsome and popular captain of the football team, is immediately taken with Cesario’s wit and charm. He confides in Cesario about his unrequited love for Olivia, the beautiful and enigmatic head of the drama club, and enlists Cesario’s help in wooing her.
Viola, as Cesario, agrees to assist Orsino, despite her growing feelings for him. She sees in Orsino a kindred spirit, someone who shares her love of music and poetry, and who understands the challenges of navigating the complex social world of high school.
As Cesario, Viola becomes increasingly entangled in the love triangle between Orsino, Olivia, and herself. She delivers love letters and messages between the two, all the while struggling to keep her own identity and emotions in check.
Olivia, intrigued by Cesario’s intelligence and sensitivity, begins to fall for the disguised Viola, adding another layer of complexity to the already tangled web of relationships.
The scene reaches a climax at a school dance, where the truth about Viola’s identity is finally revealed. In a moment of high drama, Viola sheds her disguise and confesses her love for Orsino, while also revealing Olivia’s misplaced affections.
The revelation sends shockwaves through the school, as students and teachers alike struggle to make sense of the unexpected turn of events. Orsino, initially confused and hurt, comes to understand the depth of Viola’s feelings for him, and the two share a tender moment of reconciliation on the dance floor.
Olivia, embarrassed but ultimately relieved, realizes that her feelings for Cesario were based on a misunderstanding, and she graciously steps aside, allowing Viola and Orsino to be together.
As the scene concludes, Viola and Orsino dance together under the twinkling lights of the school gymnasium, their love tested and strengthened by the challenges they have faced. The other students, caught up in the romance and drama of the moment, cheer and applaud, celebrating the triumph of true love over the obstacles of disguise and deception.
Play: Othello
Scene: The Handkerchief (Act 3, Scene 4)
Characters: Othello and Desdemona
Action: Othello becomes suspicious when Desdemona cannot produce the handkerchief he gave her.
Recontextualization:
In this modern military recontextualization of Othello’s handkerchief scene, the action unfolds on a secluded military base, where trust and loyalty are paramount. Othello, a highly decorated general, is reimagined as the commander of the base, respected for his strategic brilliance and unwavering integrity.
The scene takes place in Othello’s private quarters, a spartan room furnished with minimal decor, reflecting the austerity and discipline of military life. The walls are adorned with maps, photographs, and commendations, testifying to Othello’s distinguished career and the many battles he has fought and won.
Desdemona, Othello’s beloved wife, is reimagined as a civilian contractor working on the base, her expertise in cybersecurity making her an invaluable asset to the military’s ongoing operations.
As the scene begins, Othello is hunched over his desk, his brow furrowed in concentration as he reviews a series of classified documents on his computer screen. Desdemona enters the room, her presence a welcome respite from the weight of Othello’s responsibilities.
However, the tender moment is short-lived, as Othello’s attention is drawn to a small, inconspicuous USB drive lying on the desk beside him. The drive, he realizes with a sudden pang of unease, contains highly sensitive information related to an upcoming military operation, information that could compromise the safety and security of the entire base if it were to fall into the wrong hands.
Othello turns to Desdemona, his voice tight with tension, and asks her to retrieve the drive, which he had entrusted to her care the previous evening. Desdemona, confused and slightly alarmed by the urgency in Othello’s tone, searches her pockets and bag, but the drive is nowhere to be found.
As the gravity of the situation sinks in, Othello’s suspicion and paranoia begin to mount. He questions Desdemona relentlessly, his words laced with accusation and barely contained rage. How could she have misplaced something so important? Who might she have given it to? What secrets might she be hiding from him?
Desdemona, increasingly distressed by Othello’s interrogation, protests her innocence and devotion, but her words fall on deaf ears. Othello, consumed by his own doubts and insecurities, begins to unravel before her eyes, his once unshakable façade crumbling under the weight of his suspicion.
The scene reaches a climax as Othello, in a moment of blind rage, lashes out at Desdemona, his hand raised as if to strike her. Desdemona, her eyes wide with fear and disbelief, cowers before him, the trust and love that had once bound them together now shattered beyond repair.
As the scene concludes, Othello storms out of the room, his mind reeling with the implications of Desdemona’s perceived betrayal. Desdemona, left alone in the wake of Othello’s fury, collapses into a chair, her tears flowing freely as she grapples with the realization that the man she loves has become a stranger to her.
Play: King Lear
Scene: The Blinding of Gloucester (Act 3, Scene 7)
Characters: Gloucester, Cornwall, and Regan
Action: Cornwall and Regan brutally blind Gloucester for his perceived betrayal.
Recontextualization:
In this gritty recontextualization of King Lear’s blinding of Gloucester scene, the action unfolds in the shadowy underworld of organized crime. Gloucester, a once-trusted member of the crime family, is reimagined as a seasoned enforcer, fiercely loyal to the family and its patriarch, Lear.
The scene takes place in a dimly lit warehouse on the outskirts of the city, a place where the family conducts its illicit business away from prying eyes. The air is thick with the stench of cigarette smoke and the metallic tang of blood, a testament to the violent nature of the family’s dealings.
Cornwall and Regan, Lear’s ruthless and ambitious daughters, are reimagined as high-ranking members of the crime family, their designer suits and cold, calculating demeanor belying the savagery lurking just beneath the surface.
As the scene begins, Gloucester is dragged before Cornwall and Regan, his hands bound behind his back and his face bruised and bloodied from the beating he has already endured. The two siblings circle him like sharks, their eyes glinting with a predatory hunger as they prepare to mete out their twisted form of justice.
Regan, her voice dripping with venom, accuses Gloucester of betraying the family, of conspiring with their enemies to undermine their power and influence. She produces a dossier of damning evidence, photographs and wiretap transcripts that seem to confirm Gloucester’s guilt.
Gloucester, his voice hoarse with pain and desperation, pleads his innocence, insisting that he has always been loyal to Lear and the family.
He begs for mercy, for a chance to prove his devotion and clear his name.
But Cornwall and Regan are unmoved by his pleas. They see in Gloucester a weakness, a vulnerability that threatens the very foundation of their criminal empire. They know that to maintain their grip on power, they must make an example of him, to send a message to anyone who might dare to cross them.
With a nod from Regan, Cornwall steps forward, a cruel smile playing at the corners of his mouth. He reaches into his jacket and produces a small, sharp knife, its blade glinting in the dim light of the warehouse. Gloucester, his eyes widening in horror, struggles against his bonds, but it is no use. Cornwall and Regan’s henchmen hold him fast, their grip like iron as Cornwall brings the knife to Gloucester’s face.
In a moment of brutal, unflinching violence, Cornwall gouges out
Gloucester’s eyes, the blood flowing freely down his cheeks as he screams in agony. Regan watches impassively, her face a mask of cold satisfaction as her brother carries out the grisly deed.
As the scene reaches its horrifying climax, Gloucester collapses to the ground, his body convulsing in pain and shock. Cornwall and Regan stand over him, their faces splattered with his blood, a chilling reminder of the ruthless nature of their world.
The scene concludes with Gloucester being dragged away, his fate uncertain but his loyalty to the family forever shattered. Cornwall and Regan, their point made, turn their attention to other matters, the business of the crime family never stopping, even in the face of such brutality.
Play: The Merchant of Venice
Scene: The Casket Scene (Act 2, Scene 7)
Characters: Portia and the Prince of Morocco
Action: The Prince of Morocco must choose the correct casket to win Portia’s hand in marriage.
Recontextualization:
In this contemporary recontextualization of The Merchant of Venice’s casket scene, the action unfolds on the set of a popular reality TV show, where Portia, a wealthy heiress, is the starring bachelorette. The show, known for its extravagant challenges and dramatic twists, has brought together a group of suitors from all walks of life, each vying for Portia’s hand in marriage.
The scene takes place in a lavish mansion, the sprawling grounds and opulent décor serving as the backdrop for the show’s many challenges and eliminations. The cameras are everywhere, capturing every moment of drama and emotion for the millions of viewers tuning in each week.
Portia, a vision of elegance and poise, stands at the center of the room, flanked by the show’s host and a panel of celebrity judges. The suitors, a diverse group of men from around the world, stand before her, their eyes filled with a mix of hope, desire, and trepidation.
As the scene begins, the host announces the challenge that will determine which suitor will advance to the next round of the competition. Three caskets are brought out, each one representing a different aspect of Portia’s personality and values: one of gold, one of silver, and one of lead.
The Prince of Morocco, a dashing and confident suitor, is the first to take on the challenge. He strides forward, his eyes fixed on Portia as he weighs his options. The gold casket, he reasons, must be the one that will win her heart, for it represents the wealth and status that he himself embodies.
With a flourish, the Prince of Morocco selects the gold casket, his face beaming with anticipation as he opens the lid. But instead of the key to Portia’s heart, he finds a scroll with a message of rejection, a stinging rebuke to his prideful assumptions.
Portia, her face a mask of sympathy and regret, delivers the news to the crestfallen Prince of Morocco. He has chosen unwisely, she tells him, and must now leave the competition, his dreams of winning her hand dashed upon the rocks of his own hubris.
As the Prince of Morocco departs, the other suitors look on in shock and dismay, each one realizing the gravity of the challenge that lies before them. The host, ever the master of ceremonies, uses the moment to build suspense and anticipation for the viewers at home, teasing the drama and romance that is yet to come.
The scene concludes with Portia turning to the remaining suitors, her eyes sparkling with a mix of mischief and determination. She knows that the true test of their character and compatibility lies ahead, and she is ready to see which one of them will rise to the challenge and win her heart.
Play: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Scene: The Lovers’ Quarrel (Act 3, Scene 2)
Characters: Hermia, Lysander, Demetrius, and Helena
Action: The four lovers argue in the forest under the influence of the fairies’ magic.
Recontextualization:
In this modern recontextualization of the lovers’ quarrel scene from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the four characters – Hermia, Lysander, Demetrius, and Helena – are reimagined as players in a popular virtual reality game. The game, known for its immersive fantasy world and complex character interactions, has drawn the four friends into a dramatic and unpredictable adventure.
The scene takes place in a lush, virtual forest, with towering trees, shimmering streams, and an ethereal glow that suggests the presence of magic. The characters’ avatars, each designed to reflect their unique personalities and desires, move through the digital landscape, their actions and emotions mirroring those of their real-world counterparts.
As the scene unfolds, a mysterious glitch in the game’s code begins to affect the characters’ behavior, much like the fairies’ magic in the original play. Lysander and Demetrius, once rivals for Hermia’s affection, suddenly find themselves inexplicably drawn to Helena, their avatars’ actions and words no longer under their conscious control.
Hermia, confused and hurt by Lysander’s sudden change of heart, confronts him in a virtual clearing, her avatar’s face a mix of anger and despair. Lysander, his avatar’s eyes glazed and distant, professes his newfound love for Helena, leaving Hermia reeling and questioning the nature of their relationship both in the game and in the real world.
Meanwhile, Helena, who has long pined for Demetrius’s affection, is initially thrilled by his avatar’s sudden interest in her. However, as the glitch’s influence grows stronger, Demetrius’s behavior becomes erratic and unsettling, leaving Helena to wonder if his feelings are genuine or merely a product of the game’s malfunction.
As the four characters’ avatars argue and navigate the complex web of emotions and desires, the virtual forest around them begins to shift and change, reflecting the chaos and confusion of their relationships. Trees warp and bend, flowers bloom and wither, and the very ground beneath their feet seems to pulse with an unseen energy.
In the real world, the four friends are seated in a high-tech gaming room, wearing virtual reality headsets and haptic suits that allow them to fully immerse themselves in the game. As the glitch continues to affect their avatars’ behavior, the players become increasingly agitated and confused, their real-world relationships strained by the events unfolding in the virtual realm.
Play: King Lear
Scene: The Division of the Kingdom (Act 1, Scene 1)
Characters: Lear, Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia
Action: Lear divides his kingdom among his daughters based on their professions of love for him.
Recontextualization:
In this modern corporate recontextualization of King Lear’s division of the kingdom scene, Lear is reimagined as a powerful and influential CEO of a global conglomerate, preparing to step down and divide his empire among his three children. The scene takes place in a sleek, high-rise boardroom, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city skyline.
Lear, impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, sits at the head of the table, his presence commanding the room. His three daughters, Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia, are seated before him, each representing a different aspect of the company’s operations. Goneril, the eldest, heads the company’s financial division, while Regan oversees marketing and public relations. Cordelia, the youngest, is responsible for the company’s philanthropic efforts and social responsibility initiatives.
As the scene unfolds, Lear announces his intention to divide the company among his children, but with a twist. Instead of basing his decision on their qualifications or experience, he demands that each of them present a business proposal that demonstrates their love and devotion to him and the company.
Goneril, ever the cunning strategist, presents a plan to maximise profits and expand the company’s reach through aggressive acquisitions and cost-cutting measures. She flatters her father, praising his leadership and vision, while subtly undermining her siblings’ contributions.
Regan, not to be outdone, presents a bold marketing campaign designed to enhance the company’s brand and public image. She too showers her father with praise, promising to make him the face of the company and cement his legacy as a visionary leader.
Cordelia, however, takes a different approach. She presents a plan to invest in sustainable business practices, prioritise employee well-being, and use the company’s resources to make a positive impact on society. She speaks honestly and directly, refusing to engage in the same flattery and empty promises as her sisters.
Lear, blinded by his ego and desire for adulation, is enraged by Cordelia’s perceived lack of affection. He promptly disowns her, dividing her share of the company between Goneril and Regan. Cordelia, devastated but resolute, leaves the boardroom, determined to forge her own path.
As the scene concludes, Lear signs over control of the company to Goneril and Regan, oblivious to the chaos and destruction that his decision will unleash. The two sisters, now in control, exchange knowing glances, their true intentions hidden behind masks of filial devotion.
Play: Julius Caesar
Scene: The Conspiracy (Act 2, Scene 1)
Characters: Brutus, Cassius, and the other conspirators
Action: The conspirators gather at Brutus’s house to plan Caesar’s assassination.
Recontextualization:
In this modern recontextualization of Julius Caesar’s conspiracy scene, the action unfolds behind the scenes of a high-stakes political campaign. Brutus, a respected and principled senator, is reimagined as a key figure in the opposition party, torn between his loyalty to his colleagues and his growing unease with the direction of the campaign.
The scene takes place in a dimly lit backroom of Brutus’s campaign headquarters, a space filled with the trappings of modern politics: whiteboards covered in polling data, stacks of opposition research, and the constant hum of televisions tuned to 24-hour news networks.
Cassius, the mastermind behind the conspiracy, is reimagined as a ruthless political operative, willing to do whatever it takes to win. He gathers the other conspirators around a conference table, their faces illuminated by the glow of their laptops and smartphones as they plot their next move.
As the scene begins, Cassius lays out his plan to sabotage the campaign of the leading candidate, Julius Caesar. Caesar, a charismatic and popular figure, is poised to win the party’s nomination and the general election, a prospect that fills Cassius and his allies with dread.
Cassius argues that Caesar’s success would be a disaster for the country, that his populist rhetoric and authoritarian tendencies pose a threat to the very foundations of democracy. He urges the other conspirators to take bold action, to use every tool at their disposal to undermine Caesar’s campaign and secure victory for their own candidate.
Brutus, initially reluctant to engage in such underhanded tactics, is gradually won over by Cassius’s arguments. He sees in Caesar’s rise a danger to the principles he holds dear, a threat to the integrity of the political process itself.
As the conspirators debate their options, the tension in the room grows palpable. Some advocate for a smear campaign, using social media and friendly news outlets to spread disinformation and sow doubt about Caesar’s character and qualifications. Others propose hacking into Caesar’s campaign databases, stealing sensitive information that could be used to blackmail or discredit him.
Through it all, Brutus remains torn, his conscience warring with his sense of political expediency. He knows that the actions the conspirators are contemplating are wrong, that they violate the very ideals he has sworn to uphold. But he also knows that the stakes are high, that the future of the country hangs in the balance.
As the scene reaches its climax, Brutus makes his decision. He will join the conspiracy, but on his own terms. He will not stoop to the level of his opponents, will not engage in the same dirty tricks and underhanded tactics that he despises in Caesar. Instead, he will work to expose the truth about Caesar’s character and record, to use the power of facts and reason to sway public opinion and win the election.
The conspirators, united in their purpose, begin to put their plan into action. They divide up tasks and responsibilities, each one playing to their strengths and expertise. Cassius, the master strategist, will coordinate the overall effort. Brutus, the voice of moral authority, will take the lead in shaping the campaign’s message and tone.
As the scene concludes, the conspirators disperse, their resolve hardened by the magnitude of the task before them. They know that the road ahead will be difficult, that they will face opposition and adversity at every turn. But they also know that they are fighting for something greater than themselves, for the very soul of their democracy.
Play: The Merchant of Venice
Scene: The Bond (Act 1, Scene 3)
Characters: Shylock, Antonio, and Bassanio
Action: Shylock agrees to lend money to Bassanio, with Antonio’s pound of flesh as collateral.
Recontextualization:
In this contemporary recontextualization of The Merchant of Venice’s bond scene, the action unfolds in the high-stakes world of modern finance. Shylock, a notorious and ruthless hedge fund manager, is reimagined as a feared and respected figure in the world of international banking, known for his cunning investments and merciless business practices.
The scene takes place in Shylock’s sleek, minimalist office, located in the heart of a major financial district. The room is a testament to Shylock’s wealth and power, with its floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city skyline and its walls adorned with abstract art and expensive trinkets from his many travels.
Antonio, a struggling small business owner, is reimagined as a humble and hardworking entrepreneur, desperate to secure funding to keep his company afloat. He has come to Shylock as a last resort, knowing that the hedge fund manager’s terms will be harsh but seeing no other option to save his business and his employees’ livelihoods.
Bassanio, Antonio’s friend and confidant, is reimagined as a charismatic and ambitious young broker, eager to make a name for himself in the cutthroat world of finance. He has accompanied Antonio to the meeting with Shylock, hoping to use his charm and persuasion to secure a favorable deal for his friend.
As the scene begins, Shylock sits behind his massive, imposing desk, his fingers steepled and his eyes fixed on Antonio and Bassanio with a piercing intensity. He listens as Antonio makes his case for the loan, outlining his business plan and the potential for growth and profitability.
Shylock, however, seems unmoved by Antonio’s pleas. He has heard countless such pitches before, and he knows that the risks of lending to small businesses are high. He also harbors a deep-seated resentment towards Antonio, who has publicly criticized his business practices and even spat upon him in the street.
As the negotiations continue, Shylock’s demeanor shifts from one of cool detachment to a more predatory intensity. He begins to toy with Antonio and Bassanio, drawing out the process and savoring their growing desperation.
Finally, Shylock names his terms. He will lend Antonio the money he needs, but with a steep interest rate and a shocking condition: if Antonio defaults on the loan, Shylock will be entitled to a pound of his flesh, to be collected by any means necessary.
Antonio, desperate and seeing no other choice, agrees to the bond. Bassanio, horrified by the terms but unable to dissuade his friend, reluctantly signs on as a witness.
As the scene reaches its climax, Shylock produces the contract, a dense and complicated document filled with legal jargon and fine print. He watches with a smile as Antonio and Bassanio sign their names, knowing that he has them exactly where he wants them.
The scene concludes with a sense of foreboding, as Antonio and Bassanio leave Shylock’s office, the weight of the bond hanging over them like a dark cloud. Shylock, alone once more, allows himself a moment of satisfaction, knowing that he has secured not just a profitable investment, but a chance to exact his revenge on a hated enemy.
Play: Twelfth Night
Scene: The Prank (Act 2, Scene 5)
Characters: Malvolio, Maria, Sir Toby, and Sir Andrew
Action: Maria devises a plan to trick Malvolio into believing Olivia is in love with him.
Recontextualization:
In this modern office comedy recontextualization of Twelfth Night’s prank scene, the action unfolds in the corporate headquarters of a successful but dysfunctional company. Malvolio, the strict and humorless HR manager, is reimagined as a stickler for rules and regulations, despised by his coworkers for his inflexible policies and condescending attitude.
The scene takes place in the office break room, a sterile and uninviting space filled with generic motivational posters and outdated appliances. It’s here that Maria, a clever and mischievous member of the marketing team, hatches her plan to take Malvolio down a peg.
Maria is joined by her coworkers and partners in crime, Sir Toby and Sir Andrew, reimagined as a pair of lovable but unproductive salesmen who spend more time goofing off than closing deals. The three have long been the target of Malvolio’s disapproval and disciplinary actions, and they’re eager for a chance to get even.
As the scene begins, Maria outlines her plan to trick Malvolio into believing that Olivia, the company’s beautiful and aloof CEO, is secretly in love with him. She has crafted a series of fake love letters and emails, filled with cryptic clues and romantic overtures, designed to appeal to
Malvolio’s ego and ambition.
Sir Toby and Sir Andrew, giddy with anticipation, agree to help Maria plant the letters and set the trap. They can barely contain their laughter as they imagine Malvolio’s reaction to the supposed evidence of Olivia’s affection.
The scene shifts to Malvolio’s office, where the unsuspecting HR manager is hard at work, reviewing employee files and drafting new policies. He’s interrupted by a knock at the door, and opens it to find a mysterious envelope lying on the ground.
Intrigued, Malvolio picks up the envelope and examines it closely. It’s addressed to him in an elegant, flowing script, and sealed with a kiss. His heart racing, Malvolio tears open the envelope and begins to read the letter inside.
As he scans the words, his eyes widen in disbelief. The letter is a declaration of love from Olivia, filled with passionate language and intimate details that leave no doubt as to her feelings for him. Malvolio can hardly believe his luck, and begins to fantasize about his future as
Olivia’s partner and confidant.
Meanwhile, Maria, Sir Toby, and Sir Andrew watch from a nearby cubicle, barely able to contain their glee as they see Malvolio falling for their prank. They exchange high-fives and stifled giggles, already planning their next move.
As the scene reaches its climax, Malvolio begins to act on the letter’s instructions, dressing in outlandish colors and behaving in a bizarre and inappropriate manner. He struts through the office, a lovesick grin on his face, oblivious to the stares and whispers of his coworkers.
The scene concludes with Maria, Sir Toby, and Sir Andrew watching in amazement as their plan unfolds, marveling at the power of a well-crafted prank to bring even the most formidable opponent to their knees. They know that there will be consequences to their actions, but for now, they revel in the sweet taste of revenge.