![\"1511027_10153534985339535_3969252149711754419_n\"](\"http:\/\/blogs.luc.edu\/goglobal\/files\/2015\/01\/1511027_10153534985339535_3969252149711754419_n.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nAfter some brief orientation to our housing and on-site campus at Heythrop College in Kensington, we set out in groups to explore the city’s best and most famous pubs.\u00a0 Of course, there was a bit of drinking, but many of us were much more excited to see the exquisite landmarks of the city.<\/p>\n
To say we do a lot of walking is an understatement!\u00a0 The London Dramatic Academy, the program I am involved in, is housed 20 minutes from campus.\u00a0 And even though it would be easier most days (especially the rainy ones) to ride the bus, walking is really the best way to see many of the beauties of London.\u00a0 However, the double-decker bus also offers a pretty spectacular view of the city.<\/p>\n And I can’t forget about the tube!\u00a0 It has already been a most important for transporting me to theaters on the South bankside of London.\u00a0 The other LDA students and I have already been able to visit the Rose and Globe theatre, two theatre known specifically for their relationship to Shakespeare.\u00a0 We also attended a performance of Behind the Beautiful Forevers<\/em> at the National Theatre.<\/p>\n Along with visits famous theatrical landmarks and walks around areas such as Kensington Gardens, we also have classes.\u00a0 Unlike typical study abroad programs, LDA is a rigorous conservatory.\u00a0 We meet five days a week, usually from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Our classes include acting, Shakespeare, physical movement, period dance, speech and dialect, voice, dramatic criticism, stage combat, and various workshops throughout the semester.<\/p>\n Even though the schedule is demanding and often exhausting, the first week has been enlightening, fun and by far one of the most involved theatrical experiences of my life.<\/p>\n I could go on and on about all of the wonderful things we have gotten to do in the last several days, but I will refrain for now.\u00a0 There will be more to expound upon in the next weeks I am sure as I continue my British explorations.<\/p>\n So for now, Cheerio!<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n