Robert Ormsby

Robert Ormsby is an Associate Professor at Memorial University of Newfoundland’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. His research focuses on Shakespeare in performance, theatre history, and the intersection of global cultural tourism with Shakespearean productions. He holds a PhD from the University of Toronto, an MA from the University of Birmingham (UK), and a BA from the University of Toronto.

Research interests include early modern drama, intercultural performance, and the global dissemination of Shakespearean works through festivals and touring. Notable projects include a SSHRC-funded study on Global Shakespeare and a community outreach project exploring Shakespeare’s legacy in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Recent publications analyze touring performances, cultural tourism at festivals like Stratford, and intercultural adaptations of Shakespeare. His work bridges academic scholarship with public engagement, including exhibitions and collaborative research initiatives.

Teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on Shakespeare’s plays, early modern literature, and global Renaissance studies. Supervises graduate work on Shakespeare, performance studies, and early modern drama.

Active in professional organizations, co-organizing the Shakespeare in Performance research group (2008–2016) and curating public exhibitions such as the “Brave New Worlds” project.