Skyline student takes second in English speaking contest

When Ben Coté selected segments from Shakespeare's work to present in the English Speaking Union competition on February 12 in Seattle, he chose Sonnet 147, full of regret and despair, and Act 5, Scene 3 of Richard III - a depiction of the King's nightmare and fear on the eve of battle. In particular, the emotionally charged section from Richard III required Coté, a senior at Skyline High School, to assume the personae - even the physical appearance of the British monarch.

"I had seen Richard III at the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland on a trip with my IB English class last year. I was really impressed by the show, especially the main character, who was believable, crazy, and evil. His hunched back, insanity, deformity and anger made him an amazing villain.

"… he examines his life and deeds and argues with himself over whether or not he is a villain. The thoughts are not driven by goodness or a moral epiphany, but instead out of fear for his life…"

Coté worked with drama teacher Jim Henderson to prepare for his performance. "I was really able to develop a character, and it helped to have Henderson's guidance."

Coté took second place for his delivery and ability. The all-American looking senior successfully morphed from a handsome high school student into the hated Richard.

"Before the performance, I felt as nervous as I always do before appearing on stage. During the performance, it all flowed and felt amazing. I was in the moment, in the character, and was not just reciting lines but fearing death for my deeds in life. … I felt that the entire audience was pulled into the world of Richard for those few minutes. I started my monologue on the floor, thrashing in a nightmare. I then stood up, exposing my deformed figure and hunched back. When the monologue reached the climax, I fell to my knees and was yelling with my hands in the air. All of these actions along with practicing nuances in character helped me get into the role."

The English-Speaking Union's National Shakespeare Competition helps students develop and communicate their understanding of Shakespeare and his "universal language." Branches of the Union, such as the one in Seattle, involve local schools in competitions that are open to any sophomore, junior, or senior in a public or private school. This year, Skyline was one of 13 schools in Washington State to compete for a chance to send a competitor to New York City for the national trials. In 2005, Zane Johnston, also a Skyline/Jim Henderson student did take first place and did compete in New York City.