The nominees for the 2018 Theatre Book Prize were announced today (24 May), with Shakespeare on Stage: Volume 2 – Twelve Leading Actors on Twelve Key Roles making the five-title shortlist.

In the book, twelve renowned Shakespeare performers – including Roger Allam, Eileen Atkins, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Ian McKellen, Alan Rickman, Patrick Stewart, Harriet Walter and Zoë Wanamaker – each recreate in detail their memorable performance in a major role. Get a taste of the book with these extracts.

The annual Theatre Book Prize is awarded by the Society of Theatre Research to a title of original research into any aspect of the history and technique of British or British-related theatre history and practice. This year's shortlist also includes books by former National Theatre head Nicholas Hytner and critic Michael Coveney.

To see the full list of nominees, plus more about the Prize, visit the STR website.