Bringing Shakespeare to the People with Old Globe Artistic Director Barry Edelstein

Welcome to Episode 35 of Products of the Mind. On this episode, I speak with Barry Edelstein, the Artistic Director of San Diego’s Old Globe Theater.

“I tell young people who ask me all the time ‘what do you recommend?’ my answer is two things. Either just go with it and be as open as you can about every door that might open up in front of you, or fashion for yourself the most specific possible vision that you can of what you might want your life to be and make it happen.”

Today’s episode is a great discussion with author, scholar, and artistic director of The Old Globe Theater, Barry Edelstein. Barry is a Shakespeare expert, educator, and director of some of the Bard’s most notable work.

Barry talks about growing up immersed in theater and developing a love for the art and particularly Shakespeare. Originally set on acting, Barry learned he had a special talent for directing and production, and this talent allowed him to focus on doing what he loved without sacrificing his values. Now Barry is able to combine his love for theater with his desire to reconnect Shakespeare with the people.

We’ll learn a bit of history on how accessibility to Shakespeare has changed over the years; how and when did Shakespeare’s art become less accessible to the working class, and more of a symbol of the social elite? More importantly, what is Barry doing now to give the gift of Shakespeare to everyone, regardless of social or economic class?

Tune in to hear how Barry’s drive and zeal for all things Shakespeare is transforming the theater in new and innovative ways. We’ll also learn how technology and new interpretations of Shakespeare’s work are keeping things fresh after so many years. Don’t miss out on this great talk with Barry Edelstein!

Links from today’s talk:

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The Credits

Products of the Mind is produced by Mana Monzavi.

The theme music for this episode was provided by Le Chateau. The track name is “Bury You.” Go buy it on Soundcloud!

This episode and these show notes © 2016 David Lizerbram