Ordering Information
$59.95, 12 x 10, Hardcover, 344 pages, full color throughout
Publication date: September 9, 2025
ISBN: 978-1-942155-93-5
Copies are available through CasemateIPM.com
Shakespeare Theatre Company
The Illustrated History of a Classical Theatre
by Alexis Greene
Shakespeare Theatre Company: The History of a Classical Theatre tells the engaging story of how this nonprofit theatre in Washington, D.C., became one of America’s foremost theatres. Illustrated with hundreds of dramatic photographs of productions and performers, Greene’s history takes us from the early performances of Shakespeare in America through the founding of the enthralling Shakespeare Theatre Company (STC) and its current life as a theatre that embraces Shakespeare, other classical playwrights and contemporary dramatists whose plays may be destined to become classics. This unique history was envisioned and initiated by longtime supporter of the theatre, Lawrence Hough, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the company.
Readers’ Comments
“In this exquisitely written and photographed historical accounting of the history of Washington, DC’s SHAKESPEARE THEATRE COMPANY, Alexis Greene has captured the triumphs and challenges of regional theatre in these United States. With exquisite detail, Ms. Greene captures each phase from the elegant but straightforward beginnings in the early 18th century, through its growth from the Folger Library to the Shakespeare Theatre Company to become America’s premier classical theatre. Written for both theatre professionals and enthusiasts to comprehend, absorb, and enjoy, it is a journey worth taking. This lovely chronicle of history demonstrates, without a doubt, the unconditional impact of the Arts, specifically in this case, the Performing Arts, on our society and our obligation to support them. Read On!”
—Lynnie Godfrey
“A treasure trove of theater history! This vivid chronicle captures the soul of a company I’ve proudly called home since 1983. Rich with backstage stories, archival gems, and passionate voices, it celebrates an enduring legacy. With clarity and affection, it honors a theater, its players and leaders that together have shaped American Shakespeare with brilliance, boldness, and an unrelenting love of language.”
—Edward Gero, actor
About the Author
Alexis Greene is a writer and editor of numerous books about theater, including The Lion King: Pride Rock on Broadway, written with Julie Taymor, and most recently, the biography Emily Mann: Rebel Artist of the American Theater. In addition to writing books about theater, Greene’s career spans acting, theater criticism, and teaching (she holds a PhD from the Graduate Center of the City University of New York). Born and raised in New York City, Greene lives part-time in Gotham and part-time upstate in Walton, New York, with her husband, Gordon R. Hough.
