Synopsis
Misquoted and misused, Shakespeare has become a tourist cliche. But, while performances of his plays were raucous and raw, he made English the envy of the world. Actress Fiona Shaw explores the author's identity and applauds him for writing about life in a way that all could understand.

Digging for Britain | Shakespeare's First Theatre
Alice visits excavations at Shakespeare's first theatre in London's Shoreditch, where the Bard began his career and Romeo and Juliet was first performed.

Arena | The National Theatre - Learning Zone
Made especially for schools, this version of the BBC Four Arena programme examines the history and purpose of the National Theatre as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. Short films on Othello and Hamlet, using both rehearsal and performance footage, consider how the National Theatre takes a contemporary approach to Shakespeare's work.