Shakespeare’s Will

An exploration of one of the most silent characters in history: Anne Hathaway, the wife of William Shakespeare.

The play sheds light on unexplored aspects of Hathaway’s life by looking through the eyes and heart of the woman who spent a lifetime with—and without—the great poet. This work is the celebration of a life unbowed by tragedy and unapologetic in the face of public scorn.

AUTHOR

Vern Thiessen

Vern Thiessen is one of Canada’s most produced playwrights. His work has been seen across Canada, the United States, and Europe. Vern is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Elizabeth Sterling Haynes Award for Outstanding New Play, the City of Edmonton Arts Achievement Award, and the Governor General’s Literary Award for Drama. Vern received his BA from the University of Winnipeg and an M.F.A. from the University of Alberta. He currently lives in Edmonton, where he is the artistic director of Workshop West Playwrights’ Theatre.

Reviews

“Masterful. In theatre… it’s rare that you get something that is unequivocally, indisputably great… Every so often something comes along that deserves to be gushed about. The hardest thing about reviewing it… is figuring out where to begin praising it…”

“…perceptive and beautifully written… when the text is as good as Thiessen’s… you need little else besides.”
“…Thiessen has invented a complete life with tasteful imagination… The result is always gripping, frequently hilarious and ultimately very moving.”

“Strongly poetic… meticulously crafted, exquisitely nuanced…”