LENOX, Mass. – Shakespeare & Company has announced five, free Behind the Curtain lectures to be held throughout the summer, highlighting the casts, crew, and themes that power its 2023 productions.
Led by Shakespearean scholar Ann Berman, who holds a Master of Arts in Shakespeare Studies from King’s College, London, Behind the Curtain explores topics relative to both Shakespeare and contemporary plays, ranging from historical parallels to the effect costumes, scenic design, lighting, and more can have on audience response to a performance. Directors, cast members, design-team members, and others often serve as guest speakers.
This season will include five Behind the Curtain lectures featuring Berman and guests. Each lecture will be held at the Rose Footprint Theatre, a tented, outdoor theater situated in the Rose Meadow. The first lecture of the season will be held Saturday, May 27, at 10:30 a.m., with Ann Berman and Director Ariel Bock in conversation about Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise, followed by:
Saturday, June 17 at 10:30 a.m., featuring Founding Artistic Director Tina Packer and Berman in conversation about The Contention (Henry VI, Part II).
Saturday, July 8 at 10:30 a.m., featuring Director Christopher V. Edwards and Berman discussing August Wilson’s Fences.
Saturday, July 29 at 10:30 a.m., with Director Daniel Gidron and Berman discussing Golda Meir and Golda’s Balcony.
Saturday, August 19 at 10:30 a.m., with Director Allyn Burrows and Berman discussing A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
All Behind the Curtain lectures are free, but reservations are required. For more information, visit shakespeare.org.
About Shakespeare & Company
Shakespeare & Company was founded in 1978 by Tina Packer. Located in the Berkshires of Massachusetts, the Company offers performance, education, and actor-training opportunities year-round, and attracts more than 40,000 patrons annually with a core of more than 150 artists.
Photo Caption: Behind the Curtain host Ann Berman with Shakespeare & Company Artist MaConnia Chesser and Director Jeffrey Mousseau during a 2022 free lecture. Photo by Katie McKellick.
