When it comes to performing Shakespeare, some people just know how to do it right.

My father's spirit, in arms, all is not well.

I doubt some foul play.

Oh, what the night will come, till then sit still, my foul deeds will rise though all the earth overwhelm them to men's eyes

from the Folger Shakespeare Library this is Shakespeare Unlimited I'm Michael Whitmore the Folger Shakespeare Library, this is Shakespeare Unlimited.

I'm Michael Whitmore, the Folgers director.

The actor you just heard was, of course, the remarkable Derek Jacoby.

For 75 of his 80 years on earth, give or take, Jacoby has been performing Shakespeare.

And for more than 60 of those years, he's been sharing his passion and his talent with the

public.

We had the pleasure of sitting down for an extended conversation with Jacoby at the end of 2017.

In this, the first of a two-part presentation of that interview, he talks about the Shakespearean

role for which he is best known, Hamlet.

Beginning at the Edinburgh Fringe in 1957, Jacoby has acted this role on stage nearly

400 times, and as you can imagine, he's devoted hours to thinking about Hamlet's words,

Hamlet's motivations, and the best way to play that role.

He brings us the benefit of all that thought now in what we think will be a treat

for theater lovers, Shakespeare lovers, and lovers of great acting.

We call this podcast,

Do not soar the air too much with your hands thus.

Derek Jacoby is interviewed by Barbara Bogabe.

I wanted to start with the voice because you are so known for how effortlessly it seems

...