S1 Ep9: John Bell

Prospero from The Tempest Act 5, Scene 2 performed by John Bell 

This week John Bell joins James on Speak The Speech performing Prospero’s speech from Act 5, Scene 1 of The Tempest, and discusses his lifelong relationship with Shakespeare’s work. They discuss his career in theatre, from performing in university plays, to the Royal Shakespeare Company, before returning to Australia and founding the Nimrod Theatre, and eventually Bell Shakespeare. They delve into the complexities of Shakespeare’s works and how they are forever evolving as new audiences grapple with their themes and experiences. John Bell is the Founding Artistic Director of Bell Shakespeare and one of Australia’s most acclaimed theatre personalities. In a career of acting and directing, he’s been instrumental in shaping the Australian theatre industry as we know it. He is a multi-award winner, Officer of the Order of Australia and an Australian National Living Treasure.