Patrick Stewart's Passion Project: All 154 Shakespeare Sonnets on Audible
During the Covid-19 pandemic, when theatres worldwide went dark, Patrick Stewart turned to social media to share a daily ritual: reciting one of William Shakespeare's sonnets. Inspired by reading a sonnet to his wife over dinner, this impromptu performance series has now been compiled into a comprehensive audio collection. Available on Audible from 7 April, the recording spans almost four hours and includes all 154 sonnets from the 1609 quarto, along with Stewart's personal commentaries. His favourite, Sonnet 116 (Let me not to the marriage of true minds), is featured, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into his passion for the Bard's work.
Highlights of This Month's Theatre Streaming Lineup
Beyond Stewart's sonnets, April brings a diverse array of theatrical content to stream online. Here are the key productions to watch:
- Sam Ryder's Jesus Christ Superstar Preview: In the BBC's musical-theatre jamboree on iPlayer, Sam Ryder gives a sneak peek of his role in Jesus Christ Superstar, set to debut at the London Palladium this summer. Hosted by Jason Manford in Manchester, the event also features Victoria Hamilton-Barritt performing Pretty Little Dead Things from Paddington: The Musical.
- Ibsen on the BBC: Marking the 120th anniversary of Henrik Ibsen's death in May, the BBC presents an iPlayer season dedicated to the Norwegian playwright. This includes multiple productions of classics like Hedda Gabler with Janet Suzman and Ingrid Bergman, Master Builder with Leo McKern and Donald Wolfit, and Lady from the Sea with Eileen Atkins and Irene Worth.
- Back to the Future: The Musical Documentary: As the musical concludes its London run and embarks on a tour, Amazon Prime offers a "making of" documentary. It features interviews with co-creators Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis, providing insights into the show's development over more than four years.
Notable Plays and Performances Available for Streaming
Additional streaming options this month include compelling dramas and historical satires:
- The Most Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington: Written by James Ijames, known for the Pulitzer-winning Fat Ham, this historical satire about the inaugural first lady of the US is revived by Philadelphia's Wilma theater. Available from 9 April to 3 May, it could serve as a fascinating companion to Oh, Mary! in the West End.
- King John: Featuring Rosie Sheehy in her RSC debut as one of Shakespeare's lesser-known monarchs, this production from Marquee TV shows her character nursing a king-sized hangover upon first entrance. Sheehy is currently nominated for an Olivier award for her performance in Guess How Much I Love You? at the Royal Court.
- End: David Eldridge's play, filmed at the Dorfman theatre for NT at Home, stars Clive Owen and Saskia Reeves as a couple grappling with a cancer diagnosis. While the first two parts of Eldridge's trilogy are unavailable online, End pairs well with Stephen Poliakoff's 1991 drama Close My Eyes, which also features Reeves and Owen.
This month's streaming offerings highlight the resilience and creativity of the theatre industry, providing audiences with access to classic and contemporary works from the comfort of their homes.
