Shakespeare on Broadway

We are celebrating the legacy of William Shakespeare by recalling the ways that he continues to live on, through his works on our grandest stages, on Broadway. 

With new productions of Othello and Romeo & Juliet already on the way for the 2024-2025 Broadway season, we look back at the recent revivals of some of the Bard’s most prominent works.

1. Macbeth

• Most Recent Revival: 2022
• Theater: Longacre Theatre
• Directed by Sam Gold; starred Daniel Craig as Macbeth and Ruth Negga as Lady Macbeth.
• This revival was noted for its stark, modern interpretation with minimalistic design. Daniel Craig and Ruth Negga’s performances were highly praised, bringing intense and nuanced interpretations to their roles.

2. King Lear

• Most Recent Revival: 2019 at the Cort Theatre
• Directed by Sam Gold; starred Glenda Jackson as King Lear.
• Glenda Jackson’s portrayal of Lear brought a fresh and poignant perspective to the role, emphasizing the themes of power and loss. The modern setting and innovative stage design highlighted the timeless nature of Shakespeare’s tragedy.

3. Twelfth Night

• Most Recent Revival: 2013 at the Belasco Theatre (part of a double feature with Richard III
• Directed by Tim Carroll; starred Mark Rylance as Olivia and Stephen Fry as Malvolio.
• This production was acclaimed for its authentic Elizabethan staging, complete with all-male casting and period costumes. Mark Rylance’s performance as Olivia was particularly celebrated for its comedic brilliance and depth.

4. Romeo and Juliet

• Most Recent Revival: 2013 at the Richard Rodgers Theatre
• Directed by David Leveaux; starred Orlando Bloom as Romeo and Condola Rashad as Juliet.
• This revival featured a modern setting with a racially diverse cast, exploring the play’s themes of love and conflict through a contemporary lens. The chemistry between Bloom and Rashad was notably compelling.

5. The Merchant of Venice

• Most Recent Revival: 2010 at the Broadhurst Theatre
• Directed by Daniel Sullivan; starred Al Pacino as Shylock.
• Al Pacino’s portrayal of Shylock was a highlight, offering a nuanced interpretation of the complex character. The production was well-received for its clarity and the compelling performances of its cast.

6. Hamlet

• Most Recent Revival: 2009 at the Broadhurst Theatre
• Directed by Michael Grandage; starred Jude Law as Hamlet.
• Jude Law’s performance was central to this production’s success, bringing a youthful energy and emotional depth to the role. The minimalist staging focused the audience’s attention on the psychological drama.