Woodshed in Wales

This year, the thirteen Musical Madness participants (ages 13-18) are fortunate to be able to collaborate with an esteemed theatrical group across the Atlantic, Shakespeare Link. Located in the rolling sheep meadows and sporadic forests of Llandrindod Wells, Wales, Shakespeare Link brings together groups from across the UK and the entire globe to share in the magic of Shakespeare. Help them get there with a donation!

The Willow Globe Theater

The main performing space (in addition to a giant circus tent and an updated sheep barn with a stage) is the famous Willow Globe Theater, designed as a scaled replica of Shakespeare's Globe and created entirely from living willow trees. The text across the front is the most famous line from As You Like It--"All the world's a stage..."

photo from Shakespeare Link website

Phil Bowen and Sue Best

Two great actors, Phil and Sue, have given the last 30 years of their lives to growing Shakespeare Link. Along with their old performing troupes (esteemed outfits like The Royal Shakespeare Company), they are two massive sources of light and knowledge. What an incredible privilege to have them as our hosts and guides!

photo by C. Irons

Why?

Creating a musical in a large group is massively cumbersome, wildly difficult, and alternatively maddening and exhilarating. Woodshed ensemble members have not only devoted themselves to understanding As You Like It--something already different than most American teens--but to reimagining the show for their life and times. The chance to share our adaptation of a Shakespeare play with folks who deeply understand The Bard will help us to understand and appreciate his work (and their own!) even more.

photo by C. Irons

How??

The trip to Llandrindod Wells is not cheap--from the flight to London to ground transportation once we're there (and a night in a hotel to see the Royal Shakespeare Company perform As You Like it in Stratford-Upon-Avon!!!), the costs add up. Ensemble members are raising money for the expedition (car washes! performances! panhandling!) and are grateful for any help. Donate here to help get Mateo and the rest of the group to the Willow Globe!

composite photo C. Irons