Robert Shaughnessy

Professor Robert Shaughnessy is the Director of Research at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama (GSA), part of the University of Surrey. Previously, he held roles as Professor of Theatre at the University of Kent, and at Roehampton University and the University of the West of England. His research focuses on Shakespeare in performance, theatre history, and the political/cultural contexts of the arts, both historically and in contemporary settings.

Teaching emphasizes practical exploration of theatre history, integrating archival work and engagement with professional practices. He has pioneered methods for teaching theatre history through company-based structures and practical approaches.

His research includes monographs such as About Shakespeare (2020) and Shakespeare and the National Theatre (2018). He supervises PhD projects on topics ranging from Shakespearean performance to globalisation in theatre. As a Trustee of Flute Theatre, he supports inclusive Shakespeare productions.