CHUKWUDI IWUJI joined host NATHAN WINKELSTEIN, Red Bull’s Associate Artistic Director, for a conversation centered on Henry VI—the man who would be “a homely swain.” Chukwudi played the title role across all three parts of the Henry VI trilogy with the ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY in 2006, in productions helmed by Michael Boyd. He read an excerpt from Act 2 Scene 5—“This battle fares like to the morning’s war”—and reflected on three pivotal turning points in his career. (6/29/2020)

The Renaissance man of American theater, AUSTIN PENDLETON, joins host Nathan Winkelstein for an insightful conversation exploring his multifaceted experiences with Shakespeare—as an actor, director, playwright, and teacher. Pendleton delivers a stirring reading of Hamlet’s monologue from Act 2 Scene 2 — “O, what a rogue and peasant slave am I!” — setting the stage for a lively exchange. Together, they delve into their differing perspectives on interpreting the Bard’s works, sparring playfully over the challenges and joys of bringing Shakespeare to life.

*Guest opinions are their own and do not reflect the views of Red Bull Theater.

ISMENIA MENDES joined host NATHAN WINKELSTEIN, Red Bull’s Associate Artistic Director, for a conversation focused on Lady Macbeth–a role that she played to great acclaim in our 2019 production of MAC BETH. They discussed the challenges and rewards of playing one of Shakespeare’s most iconic leading women and she read an excerpt of Act 1 Scene 7: "Was the hope drunk wherein you dressed yourself?". (5/9/2022)