Shakespeare's Greatest Hits

As the title indicates, this is less a worshipful recitation of the Bard's best bits than a medley intended to amuse and entertain those already familiar with the plays. Pop musical bridges between many scenes comment wittily--or lamely--on the preceding piece. While the frame is lighthearted, the readings are generally serious. The acting ranges from serviceable to moving, with Amy Irving as a standout. Many segments are well known enough to need no introduction; some get a quick line or two. Two famous soliloquies, from MACBETH ("Tomorrow and tomorrow . . . ") and HAMLET ("To be . . . "), are interposed, section by section, to illuminating and powerful effect. Overall, the program fits the bill: a quick, fun savoring of some great and familiar Shakespeare. W.M. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine

October 1, 2009
A cast headed by Amy Irving and Peter Aylward enacts 13 of Shakespeare's greatest plays under the direction of Chicago Shakespeare Theater founder Barbara Gaines. While many of the adaptations are successful, the interjection of contemporary music into scene transitions can be off-putting. What's more, the tracks aren't divided by scene, a disappointment for those wanting to skip back and forth among their favorites. In the end, listeners would do better taking in an individual Shakespeare production than this mixed bag. For fans of audio drama or instructors using Shakespeare in the classroom.Lance Eaton, Peabody, MA

Copyright 2009 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.