Dreaming Shakespeare

Synopsis

A PBS television live action/animation series designed to foster the literacy skills of its viewers, while demonstrating the pleasures of reading. Each show aims to give children aged between 3 and 7 some of the experiences they need in order to become successful readers. The ‘mane’ characters are lion cubs Lionel (age 7) and Leona (age 4) serve as role models for younger viewers. Cleo and Theo are understanding and literary parents, who demonstrate the power and pleasure of literacy. In this episode it is Shakespeare Day at the Library. Fanfares, flowery language and period costumes are the order of the day (Cleo is dressed as the female star of Antony and Cleopatra). A method actor is unable to play Romeo and Juliet because Juliet is sick. Maybe an exasperated hen looking for a book about plumbing can fill in.

Series

Between the Lions

Language

English

Country

United States

Medium

Television

Technical information

Colour / Sound

Transmission details

27 Apr 2001 (Channel: PBS)

Duration

28 mins

Availability

No distributor found (2/2008).

Credits

Director

Ted May

Writer

Sean Kelly

Cast

Anthony Asbury	Lionel Lion
Jennifer Barnhart	Cleopatra (Cleo) Lion
Kathryn Mullen	Leona Lion
Peter Linz	Theodor (Theo) Lion

Additional Details

Production type

Animation

Subjects

Education

Keywords

animals; children’s television; literacy skills; Shakespeare, William (1564-1616)

Notes

History

Episode 50, season 2.

Production Company

Name

Sirius Thinking

Name

WGBH Boston