Interview: Director Jenni Stewart Shows Us The Measure of a Man and Mankind in Shakespeare's Age-Old Problematic Tale, MEASURE FOR MEASURE

Jenni Stewart, Director of Measure For Measure and 

Interim and Executive Director for Shakespeare Dallas

Director Jenni Stewart Shows Us the Measure of a Man and

Mankind in Shakespeare's Age-Old Problematic Tale,

 Measure For Measure 

Article, January 13, 2025, By Natalie Shaw

Shakespeare Dallas opened Measure For Measure on January 8, this being their first indoor production since the COVID pandemic. It is wisely selected and constructively timely for our current political climate. Regardless of your political stance, whether you lean more to the Left or more to the Right, this age-old tale gives us much to consider. How far is too far for the government to reach? Should they be able to, as Jenni eloquently states below, "police the morality of others" which differs depending on the person? Director Jenni Stewart focuses on these aspects within Shakespeare's play and graciously took the time to answer these questions directly.

Natalie: Can you share a little about your experience with directing Measure for Measure?

Jenni: Directing Measure for Measure has been a deeply rewarding challenge. This play sits at the intersection of comedy and tragedy, which requires a delicate balance to honor both its biting critique and its moments of levity. My approach has been rooted in exploring the complexities of power dynamics and human morality, ensuring that the story resonates with modern audiences. Collaborating with a talented cast and creative team has allowed us to uncover new layers of meaning in this intricate text, making it feel fresh and urgent.
 
Natalie: In your experience, how would you say Measure for Measure addresses present-day issues?

Jenni: Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure is strikingly relevant to contemporary discussions about justice, power, consent, and accountability. It tackles themes like government overreach, the abuse of authority, and societal double standards, particularly around gender and sexual morality. In a time when these topics dominate headlines, the play offers a mirror to our own struggles with fairness and ethics in both personal and institutional contexts. The enduring nature of these issues makes the play a vital conversation starter for today’s audiences.

 

Natalie: In your opinion, do you believe that the government should play a role in the sexual morality of its citizens? If so, in what ways? Does Measure for Measure exhibit these ideas?

Jenni: Measure for Measure serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of governmental overreach into private lives. While laws can protect against harm and promote equity, legislating personal morality often leads to hypocrisy and abuse, as we see with Angelo’s character. The play underscores the complexities and pitfalls of trying to control human behavior through authority. Personally, I believe the role of the government should focus on safeguarding individual rights and preventing harm rather than policing morality, which is nuanced and personal.

 

Natalie: What message(s) do you hope to relay to your audience through this play?

Jenni: I hope audiences walk away reflecting on the nature of justice, the complexity of forgiveness, and the way power can corrupt even the most righteous intentions. The play invites us to question societal norms and explore the gray areas of morality, where there are no easy answers. Ultimately, I want the audience to feel empowered to hold systems of authority accountable while also recognizing the resilience of human compassion and the importance of redemption.

Measure For Measure opens the door to a conversation, one that needs to be had, but also one that has been buzzing for centuries. Regardless, I encourage you to go and take part in the problematic conversations of this production with an open mind, seeing a perspective that you've possibly never seen before. 

Stay tuned for more on Shakespeare Dallas' Measure For Measure and local productions in the DFW area! 

Natalie Shaw

Founder and Editor in Chief

Dallas Theatre Journal

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Mikaela Baker as Isabella and Carson Wright as Angelo 

in Shakespeare Dallas' Measure For Measure. Photo Credit Jordan Fraker