Thinking Shakespeare

Barry Edelstein directed me as Othello at The Old Globe a few years ago, and it was an amazing experience: quite frankly, the highlight of my career. To take on one of Shakespeare's greatest roles was daunting and overwhelming, to say the least. Barry understands how Shakespeare's words work, and how his characters think. He makes Shakespeare accessible to the actors who embody the characters and to an audience. He explains things in terms that actors like, concrete terms that an actor can really use. This book captures his voice and his knowledge, and, like him, it's clear and fun. I recommend it for any actor, or anyone who wants to know more about Shakespeare. -- Blair Underwood Barry Edelstein is a marvel, someone who combines a scholar's precision with a showman's sense of delight. This book is simply essential reading for those who are passionate, or even curious, about Shakespeare. Barry is one of America's most distinguished Shakespeareans, an artist and a scholar, and a beautiful guide to the mystery and power of the greatest writer in the history of the globe. His book is accessible, detailed, loving, learned, and delightful. -- Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director, The Public Theater Barry Edelstein knows more about Shakespeare, and in a less pedantic manner, than nearly anyone I know. -- Adam Gopnik, New Yorker Mr. Edelstein's book is the next best thing to being in one of his eye- and ear-opening classes on Shakespeare. Read it aloud, and, as with Shakespeare, you will be appreciably wiser.-- Kevin Kline Barry Edelstein has a wonderful grasp of how Shakespeare's plays work. Rich in insight and beautifully written, Thinking Shakespeare is the best guide I know of to the challenges that confront every student and actor who reads or performs the plays. -- James Shapiro, Author of 1599: A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare, Professor of English, Columbia University Barry Edelstein really knows his Shakespeare. When he directed me in As You Like It, the depth of his knowledge about the text unlocked the character of Rosalind. His knowledge really served to deepen my work. His book Thinking Shakespeare puts this knowledge in a fun, accessible form. I highly recommend it. -- Gwyneth Paltrow