Spoiler alert for this week’s episode: Judi Dench is super cool and also has a ton of interesting stuff to say about Shakespeare.

This episode we’re talking Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays the Rent, a collection of conversations about Shakespeare’s plays and character between Judi Dench and Brendan O’Hea, a longtime actor and director who has a history of working with Dench.

Even if you are not the world’s biggest Shakespeare fan, I seriously think picking up this book (or listening to it!) could be worth your while. I discuss some aspects of the book I found illuminating, some of which probably reveals that I’ve never acted onstage and should never be allowed to do so. These items include, Dench’s take on a couple of well-known characters, her approach to acting, and some tips for performing Shakespeare.

Also, you’ll find out which Shakespeare play Judi Dench hates. Ooh, intriguing right?

Literally, how can you resist.

Further Reading

Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays the Rent by Judi Dench, Brendan O’Hea

Credit where credit is due

Podcast art by ⁠Halie Branson⁠

Music recording by ⁠josdvg⁠