Some of the finest actors in a generation perform 4 of the bard's greatest plays in specially filmed adaptations by the Royal Shakespeare Company for Thames Television.

Macbeth

Trevor Nunn's highly acclaimed production of the classic tale of the Scots nobleman whose ambition, spurred on by his alluring wife and an evil prophecy, leads him to treachery, murder and damnation. Starring Sir Ian Mckellen and Judi Dench together with the original RSC cast.

Romeo and Juliet

The Montagues and Capulets are bitter enemies, sworn to hatred. Yet when their children Romeo (Christopher Neame) and Juliet (Ann Hasson) fall in love, their happiness is doomed to failure in this brilliant interpretation of the classic tale of love and loss.

Twelfth Night

Performing one of Shakespeare's best-loved comedies, the Renaissance Theatre Company, starring Richard Briers and directed by Kenneth Branagh, deliver one of the most highly acclaimed adaptations of all time.

King Lear

Shakespeare's tragic masterpiece is brought to life in this superb production starring Patrick Magee as the titular king who descends to madness after foolishly disposing of his estate between two of his three daughters based on their flattery.