Daniel Johnston's (OR94) recently published book, Shakespeare and Phenomenology: Theory and Practice, explores how Shakespeare's theatre investigates and reveals "Being-in-the-world": the rich, vivid, lived experience of our engagement with the circumstances of existence. The book offers practical performance tips and exercises to connect with modern audiences. 

Through the lens of phenomenology (the study of how the world shows itself to conscious experience) Johnston examines how Shakespeare's plays uncover, stage, and highlight elements of the way we experience our environment. Each chapter aims to inspire creative artists in production and rehearsal through a unique focus and provide a critical approach to performance. Key plays considered include Twelfth Night, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, Richard III, and The Tempest. Johnston considers stage space and fictional place, atmosphere and mood, temporality, touch, bodies, authenticity, the concept of self, and memory in Shakespeare's works. 

In Twelfth Night, we see the importance of truthful emotional connection with others. In Macbeth we see the importance of responsibility for our actions within time. In Romeo and Juliet, we recognise the importance of genuine human connection rather than civil feuds. In Richard III, we see the importance of authentic self-honesty. And in The Tempest, we see the importance of memory in facing our past and caring for others. 

What inspired him? Daniel is the Vice Provost (academic) at Excelsia University College, Sydney NSW. His research investigates the intersection between theatre and philosophy. He has taught at NIDA, The University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Sheffield Hallam University, The University of Sydney, and Macquarie University. Daniel truly believes in the power of theatre to transform lives through human connection. The creative arts fosters collaboration, problem solving, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and a sense of fun to give purpose to our lives. This is more important than ever in a time when people are becoming more isolated and forgetful of the importance of human dignity and respect. 

What are the learnings for OIU members? As a philosophical approach, phenomenology encourages us to think about humans not as mere objects but as beings with meaningful purpose. We always experience the world though through our bodies; we are engaged in projects; we have an emotional connection to the world around us; we are intimately connected to others in the world with the same kind of being that we have; and we have a limited time here on earth. Phenomenology emphasises being with others in a way that echoes the Ignatian challenge to be "men for others". 

Daniel's hope is that this book will also serve as a source for creative exploration of Shakespeare's plays and a sense of meaning and purpose in life.

 https://excelsia.edu.au/exploring-shakespeares-theatre-through-a-new-lens/