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The Play's the Thing

Episode 2 of 6

Comedy about William Shakespeare. Will's controversial new play is about to be presented to Queen Elizabeth when it goes missing.

David Mitchell stars as William Shakespeare, trying to make his name as a playwright in Tudor London.

In this episode, Will's controversial new play is about to be presented to Queen Elizabeth when it goes missing. As the finger of suspicion points at his best friend Marlowe, can Will come up with a way to recover his stolen masterpiece? And given its politically sensitive content, is he really wise to want it back?

Available now

29 minutes

Audio described

Last on

Thu 16 Nov 2023 22:00

Credits

Role Contributor
Writer Ben Elton
Director Matt Lipsey
Producer Gareth Edwards
Will Shakespeare David Mitchell
Anne Hathaway Liza Tarbuck
John Shakespeare Harry Enfield
Mary Arden Paula Wilcox
Susanna Helen Monks
Kate Gemma Whelan
Bottom Rob Rouse
Kit Marlowe Tim Downie
Robert Greene Mark Heap
Burbage Steve Speirs
Condell Dominic Coleman
Kempe Spencer Jones

Broadcasts

  • Mon 16 May 2016 22:00
  • Mon 16 May 2016 23:35
  • Mon 13 Nov 2023 22:00
  • Thu 16 Nov 2023 22:00

A day in the life of William Shakespeare

His writing, his business dealings, and family life.

Shakespeare Lives 2016

Join a collaborative festival marking 400 years since the death of William Shakespeare.