Theater and performance

Timon of Gotham?: An Interview with set designer Tony Cisek
With lights by Andrew F. Griffin and projections by Francesca Talenti, Tony Cisek’s striking scenic design for Timon of Athens has been wowing audiences since performances began on May 9. Folger Spotlight spoke to Cisek to find out more about…

Talking 'Timon' with Resident Dramaturg Michele Osherow, Part II
We explore how Osherow has been working with the cast to explore Shakespeare’s language through the rehearsal process.

Talking 'Timon' with Resident Dramaturg Michele Osherow, Part I
Read the first part of our conversation here to find out what kinds of discoveries are being made in the rehearsal room, and then check back next week to learn more about the language of this Shakespearean tragedy.

'Timon of Athens' First Rehearsal
The last production of Folger Theatre’s 25th anniversary season began on Monday with the first rehearsal and read-through of Timon of Athens. What can we expect from this rarely performed play? Let’s take a peek inside the room and see what we…

Costumes in 'As You Like It'
Were it not better, Because that I am more than common tall, That I did suit me all points like a man? Much of the love-lorn humor in As You Like It comes from Rosalind’s male disguise, but she’s not…

Pistachios Versus Verses: Props in 'As You Like It'
Love may bloom naturally in the Forest of Arden, but the magic of theater requires a great deal of time and work from the people behind the scenes. Folger Spotlight caught up with Props Master Tony Koehler to find out what…

Dramaturg's Notes: As You Like It
As You Like It has begun performances and has already garnered rave reviews. To tell you a little bit more about this timeless play, Folger Resident Dramaturg Michele Osherow shares her views on how it embodies love in all its ludicrous glory.…

All The World's On the Page: Acting from the First Folio
Our current exhibition, First Folio! Shakespeare’s American Tour comes to a close this weekend. While we all know how important the Folio is as a collection of Shakespeare’s plays, did you also know it can be a valuable tool for…

As You Like It's First Rehearsal
Our talented As You Like It cast has been hard at work in the rehearsal room, creating the world of Arden. Here’s a sneak peak at their first rehearsal, which took place on December 27, 2016. While this post will…

In Rehearsal with The Second Shepherds' Play
Yesterday, we introduced you to the talented ladies and gentlemen who are working hard to bring The Second Shepherds’ Play to life. Today, we take you inside the rehearsal room for a quick peak at what actually happens when our cast…

A Sheepish Co-Star: Puppets in The Second Shepherds' Play
Folger Consort’s production of The Second Shepherds’ Play begins performances November 27th. Appearing alongside the talented actors, singers, and musicians on the Folger stage are a number of puppets that help bring this farcical medieval comedy to life. Folger Spotlight chatted…

Sense & Sensibility Dramaturg's Notes
Folger Theatre’s Resident Dramaturg, Michele Osherow Shakespeare one gets acquainted with without knowing how.…one is intimate with him by instinct. -Jane Austen, Mansfield Park …