The Nature of Shakespeare

How does the organic nature of language reveal itself when performed in natural settings?

Actors’ Shakespeare is delighted to continue our partnership with the Arnold Arboretum this fall in a co-produced virtual theatre experience.

Chris Edwards, ASP Artistic Director, says, “Covid has made me think deeply about simplifying life in this time of intense uncertainty.  What are the things that are fundamentally important to me that I have taken for granted for so long?  The Arboretum is a beautiful urban space that allows the community to experience some breath in a world of chaos; space to reflect on our priorities.  Shakespeare constantly used nature as a metaphor when the human made world was disjointed and/or completely aligned with the natural order.  I’m interested in seeing what happens when we place Shakespeare in simple yet beautiful environments.  How does the language speak to the environment, and vice versa? Duke Senior from As You Like It says, ‘This our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything.’  I want audiences to experience that right now.”

Edwards continues to talk about “why this piece now.”  He says that while this piece began as an artistic response to the landscape of the Arboretum, as a BIPOC identifying artistic director, it is equally important to him to ensure all bodies speak Shakespeare’s text.  This is essential in urban spaces that are meant to serve the diverse community of Boston.  The cast of the The Nature of Shakespeare reflects this priority.

The ‘product’: 

Actors will perform in different environments at the Arboretum, which ASP will capture with a professional video team.  These pieces will be turned into two episodes, each live-streamed via virtual platforms, with experts from the Arboretum illuminating each specific natural area featured.  ASP staff and artists, alongside Arboretum experts, will engage together about how the language and environments speak to one another, culminating in a live Q&A with audience members.  These episodes will also be recorded for future viewing.