RSC snaps up leading voice coach

PATSY RODENBURG is to join the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in an honorary, unpaid position as emeritus director of voice.

The renowned vocal coach, who worked for more than four decades at Guildhall School of Music and Drama, is to assist the RSC in its journey to cementing its position as a “global beacon” for classical training and performance.

Her expertise has been put to use at companies including the Moscow Art Theatre and Complicité and by actors such as Daniel Craig, Orlando Bloom, Joseph Fiennes and Ewan McGregor.

In addition to advising the RSC on the development of voice work, Rodenburg will also lead the development of a range of programmes designed to deepen the craft of theatre and classical voice training in performance.

“Voice is the foundation of all live performance; a craft that has to be so known that it becomes unknown, allowing the performer to become an artist that can engage, move and inspire an audience,” Rodenburg said.

“We need Shakespeare to be fully heard and understood because he teaches us humanity under duress; the test of love, power, fairness and forgiveness. During my career, I have been moved by all the great actors, singers and dancers who have given me their knowledge, particularly at the RSC in the 1980s. I’m delighted to share it with the RSC and British theatre, to keep live theatre and important stories alive.”

RSC leads, DANIEL EVANS and TAMARA HARVEY, added: “As we renew our commitment to making the RSC a world leader in voice training and performance, we do so with our larger purpose in mind which is to inspire deeper human understanding through the power of theatre, by redefining how Shakespeare’s work and great storytelling connect us all, create opportunities, and bring joy.

“Patsy’s expertise and passion for this work are unparalleled, and we are thrilled to welcome her back to the company.”