The plays of William Shakespeare are adorned with song. The Bard himself made it pretty clear: verses which were to be sung by the actor included the word “song” (or “sung”) in the text. It’s a very useful clue.

The lyrics have been passed down to us intact, but the melodies are lost to time. The plays have been reinterpreted from era to era and the songs have too.

British singer/songwriter and guitarist, Jason Feddy, has composed fresh, charming and compelling tunes for a selection of songs and speeches from Shakespeare’s comedies and tragedies.

Feddy has recorded the songs in a collection called simply “Songs From The Plays” which he co-produced with the legendary Ed Stasium. The songs are often played live in concert with a troupe of actors (including feddy’s wife ava burton) performing speeches and scenes from the plays in a fun and energetic show - Shakespeare’s Fool.

Press Quotes & Testimonials

“Amazing…evokes the ‘70s, but not the 1570’s, the 1970’s. Fantastic lyrics and beautiful, beautiful melodies” - Austin Tichenor, Performer and Aristic Director, Reduced Shakespeare Company.

“Jason Feddy’s soulful renditions bring the lyricism of folk and the energy of rock to the Shakespearean repertoire. We leave uplifted by Jason’s music and newly touched by the enduring artistry of Shakespeare’s songs” - Julia Lupton, Ph.D. New Swan Shakespeare Center at the University of California, Irvine

“Ava is as brilliant as ever and Jason’s renditions, amazing. So much fun.” - Anne E Wareham, Artistic Director, Laguna Beach Playhouse.

“You guys are like the Ozzie and Sharon of Shakespeare in Laguna Beach!” - Comment: beaming audience member.

“Rumpled Charm” New York Times

“Scholars and skeptics alike will be entertained” Laguna Beach Independent

“Ava Burton shows tremendous versatility and total credibility” Gazette & Herald