Ep 1. A Midsummer Night's Dream with Hugh Bonneville

Shakespeare Uncovered is back with its second season, and this time around, the episodes dive deep into the characters, themes, and stories that make William Shakespeare’s plays iconic and influential. The first episode of the new season features Hugh Bonneville, the actor who is best known for his role of Lord Grantham in Downton Abbey. Bonneville, who is an ardent enthusiast of Shakespearean literature, takes the audience on a fascinating journey through one of Shakespeare's most celebrated comedies- A Midsummer Night's Dream.

The episode opens with Bonneville setting the scene for the play and giving the viewers a glimpse of what they can expect. Amidst beautifully shot scenes of a dreamy forest, Bonneville talks about the timeless appeal of the play that has captivated generations of audiences. He explains how the play is not just a romantic comedy but also a tribute to the power of the imagination and the transformative nature of love.

As the episode moves forward, Bonneville delves deeper into the play and provides valuable insights into the different characters, their motivations, and the overarching themes that make A Midsummer Night's Dream a classic. The first character that Bonneville examines is Bottom, the foolish but lovable character who is transformed into a literal 'ass' by the mischievous fairy Puck. Bonneville talks about how Bottom represents the archetype of the 'fool' in Shakespearean plays and how his presence provides comic relief to the otherwise complex play.

Next up, Bonneville examines the character of Oberon, the fairy King who is locked in a power struggle with his wife Titania. Bonneville talks about how Oberon's desire to control and manipulate the world around him is a reflection of human nature, and how his emotional journey through the play is a testament to Shakespeare's ability to capture the complexity of human emotions on stage.

Bonneville also provides insights into the different themes that are explored in A Midsummer Night's Dream, such as the transformative power of love, the idea of the 'dream world,' and the role of the supernatural. He talks about how the play is a celebration of imagination and how it encourages the audience to abandon their rational minds and embrace the magic and wonder of the world around them.

The episode also features interviews with other Shakespearean actors and experts who provide their own take on the play and its enduring appeal. Jack Farthing, who plays the character of Lysander in the 2016 production of the play, talks about how A Midsummer Night's Dream challenges the audience's expectations and creates a world that is both fantastical and relatable. Meanwhile, Sir Trevor Nunn, one of Britain's most celebrated theater directors, talks about his experiences directing productions of the play and how he navigated the complex themes and characters to create a compelling performance.

Through it all, Bonneville remains an engaging and knowledgeable guide, providing insights and observations that will appeal to both novice and seasoned Shakespearean enthusiasts. The episode is beautifully shot and features stunning scenes of the forest and the dream world that are sure to transport viewers into the magical world of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

Overall, the first episode of Shakespeare Uncovered's second season is a must-watch for anyone who loves Shakespearean plays or is curious about the art of theater. Bonneville's enthusiasm and knowledge are infectious, and the episode provides a deep dive into one of Shakespeare's most beloved works.