Mischa Barton is determined to land a role in a Shakespearean play – and has even taken a course on the playwright to improve her chances.

Mischa Barton

The former O.C. star has decided to take a break from pursuing movie roles to concentrate on a stage career.

And Barton insists gaining a part in one of the Bard’s works is her top priority, reports Contactmusic.com

She says, “I recently did a Shakespeare course because they don’t teach Shakespeare properly in American schools. But I suppose as with any play it is about finding the right cast and actors and script for you.”