Owning Shakespeare (Ten Minute Play) by Marcia Eppich-Harris

The year is 1754. Reverend Francis Gastrell bought and tore down the house that William Shakespeare lived and died in -- New Place. Now, he wants to own the bones of the Bard himself.
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Owning Shakespeare (Ten Minute Play)

Recommended by

  • Christopher Soucy:
    15 Jul. 2022
    “ “Blessed be the man that spares these stones, And cursed be he that moves my bones.” This clever play pits a pious man of god against the reverence held for history’s most famous playwright. Brilliant and enjoyable to the last. Lovers of Shakespeare, history, or even fear of curses will enjoy this play! ”
  • Kate Danley:
    3 Apr. 2022
    “ If you've ever toured Stratford-Upon-Avon, you've heard the tale of the man who tore down Shakespeare's house because he hated him so much. This is a great little piece that incorporates all of the history (the house, the curse, the skull). If your theatre specializes in Shakespeare, this will get your audience humming with appreciation! ”
  • Nora Louise Syran:
    7 Jan. 2022
    “ An entertaining glimpse into Shakespeare tourism in Stratford-upon-Avon 150 years after the death of the Bard. Historical fact blended with historical fiction leads to super results. Bravo! ”
View all 5 recommendations

Character Information

  • William Evetts
    50s-70s
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      40s, 50s, 60s, 70s+
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Any race/ethnicity
    • Gender: 
      Male
  • Reverend Francis Gastrell
    50s-70s
    Owner of Shakespeare's house, Newplace, which he tore down.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      50s, 60s, 70s+
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      White
    • Gender: 
      Male
  • Ned Gastrell
    50s-70s
    Cousin of Reverend Gastrell
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      50s, 60s, 70s+
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      White
    • Gender: 
      Male
  • David Lewis
    40-70
    High Sheriff of Warwickshire
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s+
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Any race/ethnicity
    • Gender: 
      Male
  • David Garrick
    30s-40s
    An actor
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      20s, 30s, 40s
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Any race/ethnicity
    • Gender: 
      Male

Development History

  • Workshop
    ,
    Indiana Playwrights Circle
    ,
    2020