Thank you for your interest in Monsieur Shakespeare! I’m thrilled that you’re considering joining us for this unique two-week summer adventure in the heart of France.

This immersive experience combines creativity, ensemble work, and performance craft—all set within the breath-taking surroundings of Mas d’Arjac, an 18th-century hamlet designed to inspire. You’ll leave not only with unforgettable memories but also sharpened acting skills and deep connections with fellow creatives.

Below are some frequently asked questions to help you decide. If you have more questions, just reach out—we’d love to hear from you!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT EXPERIENCE LEVEL IS EXPECTED?
This course is open to anyone with a strong passion for performing, storytelling, and creative exploration. Some prior experience in live performance—whether amateur, college, or semi-professional—is beneficial.

We welcome a range of participants, from theatre professionals (teachers, directors, writers) looking for more performance opportunities to those curious about Lecoq techniques or Shakespeare’s works for the first time. Whether you’re sharpening your craft, trying something new, or excited about performing in Europe, you’ll find a supportive, high-standard environment to inspire you.

IS MONSIEUR SHAKESPEARE OPEN TO ANYONE?
Yes! If you're over 18, you're welcome to join. There’s no audition—just a brief questionnaire to learn about your background and goals. Spaces fill quickly, so sign up soon!

HOW DO I APPLY?
Email heather@pantsonfiretheatre.com to get started. A 30% deposit secures your spot, with the balance due four weeks before the course begins. After you have paid your deposit, we’ll send you a short questionnaire which will help us in preparing for your visit. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The fee is £1,400 for a 16-night stay, which includes breakfast, dinner, and shared accommodation. A single room is available for a £260 supplement.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

  • 16 nights of shared or single accommodation (with supplement)

  • Half board (breakfast and dinner, including wine & beer)

  • Access to a pool, fast Wi-Fi, linens, and towels

  • Toulouse airport/rail transfers

  • Expert-led workshops, rehearsals, performances, and costumes/props

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?

  • Travel to Toulouse

  • Lunches (we’ll help with shopping)

  • A printed copy of the script (PDF provided)

  • White costume basics and performance footwear

CAN DIETARY PREFERENCES BE ACCOMMODATED?
Yes, absolutely! We cater to a variety of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Just let us know in advance, and our chefs will provide delicious, tailored meal options.

WHAT ARE THE TRANSPORT DETAILS FOR AIRPORT/RAIL TRANSFERS?
You'll need to travel to Toulouse airport or Caussade (Tarn-et-Garonne) train station on Saturday 31st May. We’ll coordinate flights or train times with you and provide transport to and from Mas d’Arjac. Return transfers to Toulouse or Caussade will be on Monday 16th June.

ARE THERE FREE-TIME ACTIVITIES OR EXCURSIONS?
Yes! You’ll have opportunities to explore:

  • The Saint Antonin Noble Val market, renowned for its vibrant medieval charm

  • The Villefranche de Rouergue market, held in a stunning medieval square

  • Albi, a UNESCO World Heritage city with a breathtaking red-brick cathedral, the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, and the scenic Tarn River

    HOW ARE ROLES IN A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM ASSIGNED?
    We emphasize teamwork and equal stage time. Roles are assigned based on the group’s demographic and balance. We’ll consider your questionnaire responses and a short self-tape to create an exciting, collaborative experience.

HOW CAN I LEARN THE TEXT IN ONLY TWO WEEKS?
Don’t worry! We’ll ask you to arrive with your role prepared or well-studied. Once here, you’ll receive one-on-one classical text coaching to help deepen your connection with the material.

CAN I BRING SOMEONE WHO DOESN’T WANT TO TAKE PART?
Absolutely! Guests are welcome to relax by the pool, explore the countryside, and enjoy the facilities with you for £800.

HOW CAN I MAKE PAYMENT?
If you are from the UK you can make a payment via BACs transfer. If you are not based in the UK or would like to pay on Credit Card we accept payment via an online SumUp payment link which will be sent to you. We do accept PayPal payments however please note that these would be subject to a 5% surcharge to cover fees.

DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS OR BURSARIES?
We do not offer bursaries, but if you book with a friend and share a room with them, both of you will receive a discounted fee of £1,200 each.

HOW MANY PERFORMANCES WILL THERE BE?
There will be two public outdoor evening performances of a specially edited version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream:

  • Saturday 14 June – Château de l’Astorguié, Parisot

  • Sunday 15 June – Cloister of the Madeleine Church, Albi

WHAT IF IT RAINS?
The weather in mid-June is typically warm and dry. However, we have two indoor venues ready in case of bad weather.

WHO WILL THE AUDIENCE BE?
Expect an audience of 200+ at each performance, including a large English-speaking community and supportive local French residents. Scene-by-scene synopses will be provided for non-English speakers.

WHAT IS THE DAILY SCHEDULE DURING THE TWO-WEEK COURSE?
Here’s a typical day: 

  • 8:00 am – Breakfast

  • 9:30 am – 11:00 am – Group warm-up & workshop

  • 11:15 am – 1:30 pm – Rehearsals (Studio) / One-on-one coaching (House)

  • 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm – Lunch & free time

  • 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm – Rehearsals continue

  • 8:00 pm – Dinner

During the second week, some rehearsals will be held at the performance venues.

About Mas d’Arjac

The Mas d’Arjac, your home for the course, is a peaceful, picturesque hamlet in the heart of the Occitanie region. The 18th-century stone buildings, nestled in a valley of white oaks, provide the perfect setting for artistic exploration. You’ll rehearse in a beautifully renovated barn studio and enjoy access to tranquil outdoor spaces. This blend of history, nature, and creativity will inspire every moment of your stay.