" Our job is to make manifest the story, to be it. In a sense, the theatre is such a big star itself, bigger than any Shakespearean actor I could hire, that we should take the opportunity to fill it with voice and verse and movement, not interpretation. "
- Mark Rylance

In the quote provided, Mark Rylance emphasizes that the role of a theatre production is to bring stories to life through vivid voice, movement, and verse rather than focusing on interpretative analysis. He suggests that while actors are crucial components, the essence of theatre lies in its ability to transform space into an engaging narrative experience that transcends individual performances.

Delving deeper, Rylance’s statement underscores the idea that theatre is a collective effort where every element—set design, lighting, sound effects, and more—contributes to creating an immersive environment. This holistic approach highlights how the physical presence of actors within this setting can amplify their impact beyond mere personal interpretation or acting skills alone. By prioritizing the ensemble’s collaborative work, theatre productions aim to captivate audiences in a way that resonates with universal human experiences.

Mark Rylance is a renowned British actor and theatre director known for his innovative contributions to stage performances. His approach to directing often emphasizes ensemble work and traditional methods of storytelling, earning him critical acclaim and numerous awards, including an Academy Award. Through his extensive experience across various theatrical roles and productions, Rylance advocates for a return to the fundamentals of live performance, where the theatre itself becomes the central protagonist in evoking powerful emotions and narratives among spectators.