Shakespeare Dead and Alive

Abstract

Shakespeare’s texts are alive on the stage, as part of living images of life itself. New revelations are registered with each theatrical season as actors, designers, directors, musicians and managers collaborate in the endless quest for productions that will engage their audiences. But, in our minds, as we respond to performances, there is a still more various and intimate life. All theatrical realities and limitations may be forgotten, as the plays are recreated in our imaginations, drawing on whatever we have experienced or dreamed before that time of performance. An exhilarating interplay between these elements-Shakespeare’s text, its theatrical enactment and our own thoughts and feelings—can transport us into a fabulous world, full of surprises and deep pleasures. This book is about that process.