A lively ensemble brings history, humor, and heart to the stage.
BY: Robert Jowaiszas
At Elmwood Playhouse, director Lisa Spielman brings The Book of Will to life, a lively and heartfelt ensemble story about the devoted friends of William Shakespeare who race to preserve his plays after his death. The production celebrates the dedication, humor, and determination of those early actors who refused to let Shakespeare’s words fade away.
The staging itself is inventive and intimate. Set designer Rob Ward creates a gated central playing space with audience members seated both in front of and behind the stage. The arrangement surrounds the actors, making the audience feel as if they are sitting inside the taverns, rehearsal rooms, and printing shops where Shakespeare’s friends gather to piece together his scattered plays. The simple yet effective set allows scenes to flow smoothly, keeping the focus on the characters, their conversations, and the urgency of their mission.
The cast works beautifully as an ensemble. Michael Fleischer portrays John Heminges with thoughtful determination, capturing the loyalty and sense of responsibility that drive the effort to publish Shakespeare’s plays. Adam Bloom’s Henry Condell brings warmth and quiet conviction, showing deep respect for his friend’s work and an unwavering belief that the plays must be preserved. Ted Odell gives Richard Burbage the charisma and presence one might expect from the actor who first performed many of Shakespeare’s greatest roles.
The women in the story provide the emotional grounding of the production. Alice Heminges, the daughter of John Heminges, along with the wives Elizabeth Condell and Rebecca Heminges, offer encouragement, love, and motivation to the men undertaking the enormous task of preserving the plays. Allison Costello plays Alice with curiosity and sincerity, giving the character youthful intelligence and warmth. Amanda Bloom portrays Elizabeth Condell with quiet strength and steady support, while Meg Sewell’s Rebecca Heminges brings patience and heartfelt understanding. Together, the actresses remind the audience that even great historical efforts are sustained by family loyalty and personal devotion.
The story then shifts to the world of printing. Ralph Bowers convincingly plays William Jaggard, the conniving and opportunistic practical owner of the printing company who must balance art with business realities. Todd Brown portrays his son Isaac Jaggard with sincerity and kindness, providing a genuine and compassionate contrast to his father’s more pragmatic outlook.
The supporting ensemble — Andrew Greenway, Charlie Scatamacchia, Hediyeh Firuze, Polly Cormack, Sierra Linden, and Damon Fischer — portray multiple characters as actors, printers, and townspeople. Andrew Greenway’s portrayal of Ben Jonson provides some of the production’s liveliest humor through expressive timing, sharp tongue, and playful wit, adding welcome comic moments that balance the seriousness of the historical mission. The ensemble’s versatility and energy keep the story moving while reflecting the collaborative spirit that lies at the heart of theatre.
The technical team supports the production with care and creativity. Technical direction by Sarah Kohout keeps the pacing steady, while lighting designer Deanna Koski moves the mood from lively pub scenes to quieter, reflective moments. Costume designer Claudia Stefany’s rich period clothing helps transport the audience to early 17th-century England, and prop designer Wendy Portney provides the details that make the world of the play feel authentic and lived-in. Special effects designer Jennie Marino, dramaturg Loren Edelson, and stage manager Samantha Fiumara all contribute to the smooth flow of the production. The show was produced by Claudia Stefany and Wendy Portney, rounding out a talented and dedicated team behind the scenes.
Showing creativity evident throughout the production, Spielman subtly sprinkles in music reminiscent of the 1970s and 80s, performed on instruments that evoke the Shakespearean era. The familiar sound played on Renaissance-era instruments creates a clever bridge between centuries.
In the end, The Book of Will at Elmwood Playhouse becomes more than a history lesson. It feels like a heartfelt letter to “Theatre” itself — celebrating friendship, dedication, and the importance of preserving great storytelling.
With its intimate setting and more than 75 years as a home for community theatre, Elmwood Playhouse provides a fitting backdrop for a story about protecting the legacy of William Shakespeare. As Shakespeare wrote in As You Like It, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” At Elmwood Playhouse, that sentiment still rings true — reminding audiences that theatre, and the passion behind it, continues to live on with every performance.