Ep 18. The Shaw Festival: Behind the Curtain

The Shaw Festival: Behind the Curtain takes viewers on a journey behind the scenes of one of North America's premier theatre festivals. Located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, the Shaw Festival is renowned for its productions of George Bernard Shaw's plays and other great works from the global theatrical canon.

Over the course of this special episode, viewers will get an intimate look at the planning and execution that goes into creating a world-class festival. They'll meet a variety of artistic and technical professionals who bring the plays to life, from actors and directors to designers and technicians. These experts will share their insights and experiences, giving viewers an inside perspective on the complexity and beauty of theatre-making.

Viewers will also be able to get a sense of the history and significance of the Shaw Festival. The festival was founded in 1962 with the goal of celebrating the life and works of George Bernard Shaw. Today, it has expanded to include works by playwrights such as Oscar Wilde, Tennessee Williams, and Caryl Churchill, among others. The festival has developed a reputation for world-class productions that challenge and engage audiences from around the world.

Throughout The Shaw Festival: Behind the Curtain, viewers will be taken on a behind-the-scenes journey through the festival's various stages, which include four state-of-the-art theatres. They'll learn about the specific design and technical challenges involved in staging different types of plays, from classic period dramas to modern experimental works. Along the way, they'll meet the talented artists responsible for bringing each production to life, learning about their unique approaches and techniques.

In addition to exploring the artistic side of the festival, the episode will also delve into the practicalities of running a world-class theatre festival. Viewers will get a sense of the logistical challenges involved in getting a diverse range of productions up and running, from scheduling to staffing to fundraising. They'll see how the festival's leadership team works tirelessly to balance artistic vision with financial sustainability, ensuring that the festival can continue to thrive for decades to come.

Overall, The Shaw Festival: Behind the Curtain is a fascinating deep-dive into the art and science of theatre-making. Whether you're a seasoned theatre-lover or simply curious about how some of the world's most beloved plays come to life, this special episode is sure to leave you with a greater appreciation for the hard work and creativity that goes into creating great theatre. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this up-close-and-personal look at one of North America's true cultural treasures.