By Kat Bryant

Grays Harbor News Group

Karen DeMasters, founder of the Aberdeen Shakespearean Theatre, will lead a Grays Harbor College workshop March 7 on the basic elements of performing William Shakespeare’s works.

“The class is meant to be preparation for the upcoming auditions,” said DeMasters, who’s planning a summer Shakespeare in the Park production of “The Comedy of Errors.”

Among the topics to be covered are an overview of the famed playwright’s life; using the rhythm of iambic pentameter to learn and perform lines; other techniques, including audio learning; and understanding the language of the time (late 1500s to early 1600s).

“We will also practice projection, as that will be very important for performing in the park,” DeMasters noted.

The $30 workshop, titled “Performing Shakespeare,” will run from 1 to 4 p.m. at Grays Harbor College’s Manspeaker Building, Room 2225. Those interested must enroll in advance by calling GHC’s Community Education Department at 360-532-9020.

Later, from April 1 to 4, Aberdeen Shakespearean Theatre will hold auditions for “The Comedy of Errors,” one of Shakespeare’s early plays (and his shortest). Everyone 14 and older is welcome to try out for the 19 roles available.

An appointment is required — and “please come prepared with a Shakespeare monologue,” said DeMasters.

For more information on the March 7 workshop or to schedule an April audition, contact DeMasters at 360-533-3534 or aberdeenshakespeare@gmail.com.