The Book of Will
A legacy at stake. No money. No experience. No stopping them.
A legacy at stake. No money. No experience. No stopping them.
Seven years after the death of Shakespeare, a small group of unexpected heroes with no money, resources, or experience come together to compile what would become Shakespeare's First Folio...
Playwright
Director
Summary
Seven years after the death of Shakespeare, a small group of unexpected heroes with no money, resources, or experience come together to compile what would become Shakespeare’s First Folio. This rapid fire and buoyant play tells the story of those who knew Shakespeare best as they fight to collect 37 of his plays into one volume against all odds. Their translation of words from the stage to the page would forever change theater and literature.
Get to know the characters in The Book of Will!
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Press & Reviews
“While the concept of the story may, at first glance, seem familiar, the latest Lyric Stage production of “The Book of Will” is, quills down, one of the most gratifying and funniest plays to hit Boston this year.”
“Gunderson has nonetheless performed a service to cultural memory. Life without Shakespeare’s works is unimaginable, and she reminds us that we came within an eyelash-and some enterprising actors-of losing them.”
The Boston Globe | Averting a Shakespeare tragedy in Lyric Stage’s ‘The Book of Will’ | Don Aucoin
“Under the direction of Courtney O’Connor, the cast, wonderfully cohesive and clearly enjoying themselves, successfully brings the characters and story to life on an appropriately minimal set. The range of emotions ensues as the story unfolds, thanks to the wonderful performances of all the actors.”
The Armenian Weekly | Grace Experience, a literary beauty, in “The Book of Will” | Pauline Gwtzoyan
“If you’re looking for a fun show, THE BOOK OF WILL will not disappoint.”
“Lest you think this is a play reserved for Shakespeare nerds, think again. Gunderson has infused the script with humor, poetry, pathos and intrigue — ingredients for entertaining theater — as well as factual history.”
“Thanks to playwright Lauren Gunderson’s ingenious invention, implausible, not to say distasteful, characters appear with entirely plausible motives for helping not only Shakespeare’s actor friends but, richly, themselves into the ‘gold’ and fame of this rare bargain.”
Artscope | The Book of Will has Lyric Stage Audiences Laughing | James Foritano
Production Cast
Production Photos
Production Crew
Scenic Design**
Costume Design**
Sound Design
Lighting Design**
Production Stage Manager*
Assistant Stage Manager*
Wardrobe
Props Artisan
Assistant Director
Assistant Sound Designer
Dramaturg
Dialect Coach
Head Electrician
Production Sponsor
Joe Richard and René MorrissetteCast Sponsor
Alice Richmond and David RosenbloomDirector Courtney O’Connor Sponsor
Sharon & John Parisi* Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States
** Represented by United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829 of the IATSE
°Stage Directors and Choreographers Society
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