What! Can the devil speak true?...

Shakespeare doesn't relate to the modern age, or so we often hear said as an excuse. Yet, as if it did anyway, that excuse will no longer wash, as an interactive graphic novel of 'Macbeth', is set to be introduced in schools. Produced by Classical Comics, the 'novel' combines the artwork of Jon Haward, with the voiceovers of  Juliet Stevenson and experienced Shakespearian actor Derek Jacobi, to create the ultimate multimedia experience. Jacobi himself, described the project as 'truly inspirational, creating, as it does so magnificently, an accessible and fascinating mix of visual and audible drama'. Readers are able to either flick through one panel at a time, or deploy 'movie mode' complete with language and context notes. If successful, Classical Comics is plaaning to release a whole new range, including such titles as 'Romeo and Juliet', 'Julius Caesar' and 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. Yet many, not without justification, will argue, that it is yet another method of diluting and so damaging the rich literary culture of our country.

Is this a dagger which I see before me?...

'So, thanks to all at once and to each one, whom we invite to see us crown'd at Scone'. Thus ends Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'. But what does happen after the curtain closes? With Banquo dead, Macbeth killed and Malcom heir in waiting, how will Scotland fair? It is these questions which the Royal Shakespeare Company are attempting to address in their new play, 'Dunsinane'.

The work is written by award-winning playwright David Grieg, who believes; 'to some degree for Scottish writers, it's always felt a little bit cheeky that unquestionably the greatest Scottish play was written by the great English playwright...so there is a slight sense of answering back'. He also hopes that it demonstrates parallels with current situations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where 'men with good intentions going in and trying to coerce a culture to follow its own rules without quite understanding that foreign culture', and encourages modern political leaders to come and watch the performance. The play is on in the Hampstead Theatre until March 16th, and tickets can be purchased here

All the world's a stage...

The Globe Theatre has announced its 2010 season, beginning on the anniversary of Shakespeare's supposed birth and death - 23rd April. Titled 'Kings and Rogues', it opens with Shakespeare's shortest, but perhaps most popular tragedy 'Macbeth'. Following close behind is three plays in his historical series, the ever popular Henry IV parts I + II, as well as the lesser known Henry VIII. Larger than life character Sir John Falstaff is celebrated in three of the plays; also reappearing in a revival of 'The Merry Wives of Windsor'. Booking for tickets opens on February 15th.