Bill Canacci

Now it's true some people in the audience may have never read some of these works, or seen a version of any kind. Others may find Shakespeare intimidating or confusing. But never fear. Page will help you understand these characters. What is their motivation? What is their mindset? What was going on in Shakespeare's mind? And it's a good bet you'll leave with a curiosity to know more. It goes without saying that if you're a fan of Shakespeare, you're going to love every minute of this. You may even learn a thing or two.

Overall, the audience did not seem overly impressed: There was courtesy clapping at the end of Act I, and the applause only slightly increased in Act II. When it was over, there was sustained appreciation. This kind of period piece just does not warrant a rousing standing ovation.