The Hip-Hop Shakespeare Company is a music theatre production company founded by MOBO-award winning hip-hop artist Kingslee “Akala” Daley. In July, the British Council welcomed members of the company to Auckland, Melbourne & Brisbane for a series of workshops and creative residencies. This video highlights some of the workshops.

In his workshops Akala challenges the perception of language. He aims to teach young people ideas of cultural entitlement, but using something perceived as elite (Shakespeare), and showing its commonality with hip hop. Methods for opening up cultural groups through language are discussed, as well as techniques for poetry/MC delivery, and best practice from case studies. Akala inspires and engages young people with his workshop experience throughout Europe, Africa and around the World.