Totus mundus agit histrionem is believed to be a kind of catchphrase for the original Globe Theatre. The phrase translates to “The whole world is a playhouse,” a sentiment not to far from Shakespeare’s famous quote, “All the world is a stage.” The new Globe, built just over ten years ago according to what are believed to be the specifications of the original, is adopting this slogan again for their upcoming season.

Apparently, a Totus Mundus season means a wide variety of Shakespearean plays, including King Lear, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Merry Wives of Windsor, and Timon of Athens. It is an interesting mix, particularly on the heels of their most successful season yet. That season included the widely known tragedy Romeo and Juliet. This season follows a similar format, balancing well known titles (Lear and Midsummer) against lesser known (Windsor) and even obscure (Timon) works.

While the better known titles inspire a variety of responses, from voracious anticipation to overexposed fatigue, it is the lesser titles that have more potential to impact the audience. Timon may be well known to Bard aficionados, but the uninitiated may not even have heard of its existence. As a result, the artists involved have more creative leeway, because they are presenting an unknown quantity. Its audience is less likely to come into the production with preconceived notions about concept and characterization. In this way, The Globe has the potential to broaden its audiences’ understanding of Shakespearean theatre.

Posted Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:27:30 and filed under Timon of Athens, The Merry Wives of Windsor, Globe Theater, King Lear, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Romeo & Juliet. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.