Ma(r)d about the Bard? No other figure looms quite as large in the English-speaking theatre world as William Shakespeare, thanks to his impact on our language, his oft-imitated plots and tropes – and, of course, his wonderful and timeless plays.
In this selection, we've rounded up a dozen books and playscripts, perfect for any Shakespeare fan – such as fascinating, in-depth looks as memorable productions, practical guides to performing his work, and tie-in editions and visionary new versions of some of his most famous plays.
Brutus and Other Heroines
Playing Shakespeare's Roles for Women
Award-winning actress Harriet Walter shares insights gleaned from her vast experience of performing some of Shakespeare's most famous roles - both male and female.
Exploring Shakespeare
A Director's Notes from the Rehearsal Room
A Shakespeare masterclass from an acclaimed theatre director, going inside the rehearsal room to reveal – in unprecedented and captivating detail – exactly what happens there. An essential book for directors and actors, and a fascinating insight for anyone interested in Shakespeare.
Macbeth (Donmar Warehouse edition)
By William Shakespeare Edited by Max WebsterShakespeare's most extraordinary psychological drama in a version premiered at the Donmar Warehouse in 2023, starring David Tennant and Cush Jumbo, directed by Max Webster. With behind-the-scenes material exploring how the production was conceived and developed.
Player Kings
Shakespeare's Henry IV Parts 1 & 2
By William Shakespeare Adapted by Robert IckeShakespeare's great history plays, Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, brought together in a visionary new version adapted by award-winning writer and director Robert Icke.
The Quality of Mercy
Reflections on Shakespeare
By Peter BrookOne of the world's most revered theatre directors reflects on a fascinating variety of Shakespearean topics.
Queen Margaret
By William Shakespeare Adapted by Jeanie O'HareUsing Shakespeare’s orginal lines, alongside new text, Jeanie O’Hare retells The Wars of the Roses through the eyes of the extraordinary Margaret of Anjou.
Shakespeare in 100 Objects
Treasures from the Victoria and Albert Museum
Edited by Janet BirkettA fascinating selection of one hundred objects, each illustrated in full colour and accompanied by a compact essay, chosen by the Victoria and Albert Museum's curators for the insight they afford into the world of Shakespeare and his plays.
Shakespeare On Stage
Thirteen Leading Actors on Thirteen Key Roles
By Julian CurryThirteen leading actors take us behind the scenes, each recreating in detail a memorable performance in one of Shakespeare's major roles.
Shakespeare On Stage: Volume 2
Twelve Leading Actors on Twelve Key Roles
By Julian Curry Foreword by Nicholas HytnerTwelve leading actors take us behind the scenes of landmark Shakespearean productions, each recreating in detail their memorable performance in a major role.
Shakespeare's Lost Play
In Search of Cardenio
A thrilling act of literary detection as Gregory Doran attempts to rediscover Shakespeare's lost play.
Sweet William: A User's Guide to Shakespeare
An exploration of Shakespeare's life and work by a leading actor who has spent twenty thousand hours working on the plays.
Year of the King
By Antony SherA classic of theatre writing, a unique insight into the creation of a landmark Shakespearian performance.