Tina Packer
Stage director, actress, co-founder of Shakespeare & Company
Tina Packer, the visionary British-American stage director, actress, writer, and teacher who co-founded Shakespeare & Company and served as its artistic director for over three decades, passed away on January 9, 2026, at the age of 87. Born Christina Packer in Wolverhampton, England, she dedicated her life to making the works of William Shakespeare vibrant and accessible to countless artists and audiences worldwide. Her profound understanding of the Bard's texts and her innovative approach to performance left an indelible mark on the theatrical landscape.
Packer's illustrious career began in England, where she trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, graduating with honors and the Ronson Award for Most Promising Actress in 1964. She became an Associate Artist with the Royal Shakespeare Company and appeared in notable television series for the BBC and ITV, including "David Copperfield" and "Doctor Who." Her early experiences shaped her belief in a visceral, physically engaged approach to Shakespeare, leading her to seek new avenues for theatrical exploration.
In 1978, Packer co-founded Shakespeare & Company in the Berkshires of Massachusetts, establishing a unique institution renowned for its rigorous actor training programs and compelling productions. Under her leadership, the company grew into an internationally respected center for classical theater, fostering a deep connection between actors, language, and the audience. She directed all of Shakespeare's plays, many multiple times, and championed a methodology that blended British intellectual rigor with American physical vitality.
Beyond her directorial and acting work, Packer was a prolific author and educator. Her seminal work, "Women of Will," explored Shakespeare's female characters and evolved into a critically acclaimed five-part performance piece that toured internationally. She also authored "Power Plays: Shakespeare's Lessons in Leadership and Management" and the children's book "Tales from Shakespeare." Her contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Commonwealth Award, the American Shakespeare Center's Burbage Award, and the Shakespeare Theatre Association's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Even after stepping down as artistic director of Shakespeare & Company in 2009, Packer remained deeply involved, continuing to direct, teach, and advocate for the company she helped build. The Tina Packer Playhouse, the largest indoor theater at Shakespeare & Company, stands as a testament to her enduring legacy. Her fiery spirit, insatiable curiosity, and unwavering dedication to the power of Shakespeare's words will continue to inspire generations of theater artists and enthusiasts.