Why???

Hi Clare

How could i resist a piece of flame bait like this?

Clare wrote:
-------------------------------
> Im very curious about something.....
>
> Why is everyone connected with Theatre in any way
> obsessed with Shakespere? [sic]

(hey, he couldn't spell his own name. why should i correct your spelling)

I guess you've just answered your own question.

Everyone connected with theatre is _not_ obsessed with Shakespeare. If you'd like to form a "Shakespeare is over-rated" club i can name quite a few people who will gladly join. Noel?

> Personally I think his plays are dull and boring and
> totally overdone.

Can you be a little more specific? Which plays? Which bits? And why do you find them dull, boring and overdone? Examples are always useful.

> I also think that most people just like
> his work because its 'Cool' and 'Popular' and
> 'Everyone else likes it'

Possibly. I'm not "most people" so i wouldn't presume to speak for everyone.

> Im not really sure if anyone
> REALLY even understands it!

I'm sure no-one really does. In fact, when it comes down to it, i'd be highly suspicious of anyone who claims to fully understand any play, ancient or modern. Including the playwright themselves! There is always so much to discover and learn. That's at least part of the enjoyment.

> And yes, i have studied Shakespere, so I do kind-of
> know what im on about.

I studied Checkov at uni, read half a dozen plays a few times, saw four live productions, did a two week intensive workshop at WAAPA, watched performances on video and still couldn't work out why people lauded his work.

Watching my fifth live production of Checkov the penny suddenly dropped and i saw and understood why people loved his work. Now i can't get enough it.

Be careful. One day, watching Shakespeare, it might happen to you.

Cheers
Grant