Mini: Making Shakespeare Accessible with Mike and Steph Crugnola of Walking Shadow Shakespeare Project

Shakespeare Anyone?

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In this mini episode, we’re joined by Mike and Steph Crugnola of Walking Shadow Shakespeare Project to talk about their mission to make Shakespeare more accessible—for both audiences and artists.

We dive into the company’s flexible and innovative production models—including one rehearsal performances, collaborative directing, site-specific stagings, and immersive experiences—and how these approaches open up new ways of engaging with Shakespeare’s work. Steph and Mike also share how they intentionally build accessibility into every level of their process, from casting and rehearsals to performance format and audience experience.

Whether you're a theatremaker looking for inspiration or a Shakespeare fan curious about inclusive practices in classical performance, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at what it means to make Shakespeare’s work truly for everyone.

To learn more about Walking Shadow Shakespeare Project, visit www.walkingshadowshakespeare.com or follow them on Instagram @wsshakes.

More about Mike and Steph Crugnola

Mike and Steph Crugnola are on the board of Walking Shadow Shakespeare Project, a nonprofit theatre company based in Austin TX, committed to breaking down the barriers of accessibility to Shakespeare for artists and audiences alike. They're focused on creating Shakespeare for the Austin community that more accurately reflects the Austin community, so actors of all races, abilities, genders, ages, and sexual orientations can see themselves in Shakespeare's work.

Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp.

Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander.

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