Behind The Bard

Get an inside look at Macbeth with Director Jeff Nahan and Artistic Director Sara Catherine Wolf as they break down what makes this iconic tragedy tick. From the play’s psychological complexity to staging choices for Shakespeare Royal Oak, they share their vision, insights on character motivation, and why Macbeth still captivates audiences centuries later.

Get an inside look at Shakespeare Royal Oak’s Macbeth as real-life couple Drew and Meredith Parker—playing the infamous Macbeth and Lady Macbeth—interview each other about bringing these roles to life. Hear how their offstage bond plays into their performances, what it's like to explore these iconic characters, and the magic of outdoor theatre at Shakespeare Royal Oak!

In this episode, Actor and Fight Choreographer, Michael Brian Ogden sits down with Craig Ester, playing Macduff to reflect on their experiences preparing for Shakespeare Royal Oak’s production of Macbeth . From five seasons of Shakespeare Royal Oak memories to the intensity of outdoor performances, the two dive into what makes this production—and the stage—so unique. They geek out over fight chore...

In this episode of Behind the Bard, we dive into the heart of Shakespeare Royal Oak’s education programs with our Education Director, Vickie Schmitt. From sword fighting and improv to Shakespearean performance, we explore how KidsAct! (grades 1-8) and SRO Teen Ensemble (grades 9-12) are shaping young artists—and why "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" is this summer’s perfect teen pick. Learn ho...

Meet Holly and Brian Conroy — the welcoming spirit of Shakespeare Royal Oak and the heart behind decades of magical summer nights in the park. In this episode of Behind the Bard, we explore how their love story intertwines with the festival’s origin, from front-gate hellos to handmade candlelit exits. Whether you're a longtime attendee or new to the magic, this is the story of how a neighborho...

Step into the untold story behind 25 summers of Shakespeare Royal Oak. In this special Behind the Bard episode, we sit down with founding board member Holly to celebrate the creators who make the magic happen—from handcrafted masks and set design to iconic banners and striking stage photography. Discover how a local community of artists shaped Michigan’s most enduring outdoor Shakespeare festival,...