Theatrical Improvisation: Short Form, Long Form, and Sketch Based Improv Book

Hands down the greatest and most insightful discourse on Shakespeare I have ever read. The book is basically a well-edited transcript of the partly scripted 1984 television series conducted by Barton with the Royal Shakespeare Company, whose ranks at the time were filled with the likes of Ian McKellan, Judi Dench, Ben Kingsly, and Patrick Stewart. Barton and Co. tackle the text from an actor's standpoint and really break the most intimidating aspects of Shakespeare down, revealing guidlines and stage directions that are hidden in the lines themselves. This book is not only a fascinating read for any person with a mild curiosity about Shakespeare, but also essential reading for anyone in the business of Theatre.

*As a side note: At this time, you can find many of the original television program on YouTube. Very interesting to watch since the VHS is nearly impossible to find.