We’re not your typical theater company.
We are a repertoire troupe of players committed to studying and presenting the works of Shakespeare.
Each of our members dons a persona (their “Villein”), a self-designed, embodied variation of a Shakespearean “archetype,” which allows them to shift easily from role to role, in their personal wheelhouse of characters.
We strive to serve up Shakespeare as, in the best it is; sharp, vivid, alive, and comprehensible.
Whether onstage or online, we deliver bold, authentic performances laced with clever, bite-sized education—designed to empower you to not only better enjoy our shows, but all the Shakespeare you see henceforth.
As “Villeins” we take inspiration from the fact that Shakespeare wrote for players and for audiences, and that those audiences were comprised of all walks of life.
As a troupe we study the works in depth, always seeking a fuller understanding of the dramatic effect that Shakespeare was trying to achieve. And when a better understanding of the context and words is crucial to enjoying the drama, we provide it in our special style.
Come, join our revels, and soon thou shalt be the one at every gathering, weaving Shakespeare into every conversation. For when we’re through, thou shalt not only grasp the plays—you will love them.
