The Unforgettable Great Shakespeare Actors - From Burbage to Branagh

William Shakespeare, the renowned playwright, is known for his exceptional works that have shaped the world of theatre. His plays have been performed countless times on stages across the globe. However, it is the actors who bring these characters to life and immerse the audience in the magic of Shakespearean drama. From the legendary Richard Burbage to the brilliant Kenneth Branagh, let's journey through time and explore the greatness of some of the most memorable Shakespearean actors.

The Magnificent Richard Burbage

Richard Burbage, born in 1567, was an English stage actor and one of the earliest members of the renowned Lord Chamberlain's Men, a company of actors that laid the foundation for the King's Men – the official theater troupe of Shakespeare. Burbage is best known for his iconic portrayal of tragic characters like Hamlet, Othello, and Lear. His profound understanding of Shakespeare's language and his ability to capture emotions with great intensity earned him the reputation of being the supreme tragedian of his time.

Great Shakespeare Actors: Burbage to Branagh

by Julie Fain Lawrence-Edsell (Illustrated Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	438 pages
Item Weight	:	1.34 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.99 x 9.21 inches
File size	:	1876 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	322 pages

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The Versatile Laurence Olivier

In the 20th century, Sir Laurence Olivier emerged as an exceptional Shakespearean actor who excelled in both tragedy and comedy. Olivier's stage presence and command over the Shakespearean verse captivated audiences worldwide. His notable performances include portrayals of Hamlet, Othello, and Macbeth. Olivier's portrayal of Richard III in both theater and film remains one of the most remarkable interpretations of the deformed villain. His contribution to the world of Shakespearean performances remains unparalleled.

The Enigmatic Maggie Smith

Dame Maggie Smith, known for her incredible range as an actress, has left an indelible mark on the Shakespearean stage. Her portrayal of Cleopatra in "Antony and Cleopatra" and Lady Macbeth in "Macbeth" are considered exceptional. Smith's ability to bring complexity and depth to her characters through her stellar acting skills is truly captivating. Her unique interpretation of Shakespeare's heroines has set a benchmark for aspiring actors and remains a source of inspiration.

The Dynamic Kenneth Branagh

Kenneth Branagh rose to prominence as an actor and director with his remarkable Shakespearean adaptations and performances. His highly acclaimed portrayal of Henry V in both theater and film earned him critical acclaim and a solid reputation in the world of Shakespearean acting. Branagh's ability to bring the essence of Shakespeare's characters to contemporary audiences is commendable. His contributions to Shakespearean cinema and his dedication to preserving the legacy of the Bard have solidified his place among the greats.

The Legacy Lives On

The greatness of these actors is just the tip of the iceberg. From David Garrick to John Gielgud, the Shakespearean stage has seen countless actors bringing their unique interpretation and talent to the forefront. The legacy of Shakespearean acting continues to inspire and mesmerize both actors and audiences alike, keeping the magic of his works alive for generations to come.

This article is dedicated to all the remarkable actors who have graced the Shakespearean stage.

Great Shakespeare Actors: Burbage to Branagh

by Julie Fain Lawrence-Edsell (Illustrated Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	438 pages
Item Weight	:	1.34 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.99 x 9.21 inches
File size	:	1876 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	322 pages

FREE

Great Shakespeare Actors offers a series of essays on great Shakespeare actors from his time to ours, starting by asking whether Shakespeare himself was the first—the answer is No—and continuing with essays on the men and women who have given great stage performances in his plays from Elizabethan times to our own. They include both English and American performers such as David Garrick, Sarah Siddons, Charlotte Cushman, Ira Aldridge, Edwin Booth, Henry
Irving, Ellen Terry, Edith Evans, Laurence Olivier, John Gielgud, Ralph Richardson, Peggy Ashcroft, Janet Suzman, Judi Dench, Ian McKellen, and Kenneth Branagh. Individual chapters tell the story of their subjects' careers, but together these overlapping tales combine to offer a succinct, actor-centred history of
Shakespearian theatrical performance.

Stanley Wells examines what it takes to be a great Shakespeare actor and then offers a concise sketch of each actor's career in Shakespeare, an assessment of their specific talents and claims to greatness, and an account, drawing on contemporary reviews, biographies, anecdotes, and, for some of the more recent actors, the author's personal memories of their most notable performances in Shakespeare roles.