Six actors and directors gather to relay the stories behind some of Shakespeare's greatest plays. Featuring Hugh Bonneville, Christopher Plummer, Morgan Freeman, David Harewood, Kim Cattrall, and Joseph Fiennes.
EPISODE 1
Macbeth
Ethan Hawke examines the history of Shakespeare's Macbeth and its best productions as he uncovers the real story behind the supposedly cursed play.
EPISODE 2
Twelfth Night And As You Like It
Joely Richardson delves into Shakespeare's Twelfth Night and As You Like It, focusing specifically on their comedic legacy and their great comic heroines.
EPISODE 3
Richard II
Derek Jacobi examines Shakespeare's Richard II, in which he played the titular role back in 1978. He explains why it may have cost Shakespeare his life, and looks at the political themes that still resonate today.
EPISODE 4
Henry IV and Henry V Presented By Jeremy Irons
Jeremy Irons examines the draw of Shakespeare's History Plays, discovering the differences between real history and Shakespeare's fiction.
EPISODE 5
David Tennant On Hamlet
David Tennant catches up with some of the other actors who have taken on the role of Hamlet. Later, he attempts to uncover the meaning of the play and why it is viewed as Shakespeare's best.
EPISODE 6
The Tempest
Director Trevor Nunn explores the mysterious world of The Tempest, and finds out where Shakespeare's material came from, as well as the personal insights hidden within.
Jade Anouka
Tom Hiddleston
Tori Sparks
David Tennant
Michael Benz
Harriet Walter
Fiona Stourton
Richard Denton