Bardic Inspiration is an experimental audio drama and real-play RPG performance presented by Shakespeare on the Lawn at the University of Virginia. Blending elements of character sheets, table work, dice-rolling, and improv, this team of actors takes on the roles of the four lovers from William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream in order to tell their own version of his classic play. Join Demetrius, Helena, Lysander, Hermia and their Game Manager on a journey through the forest of Athens. The course of true love never did roll smooth!

Streaming now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!

You can stream the first episode here:

Or can stream any of the episodes from our hosting site below:

  • by Shakespeare on the Lawn
    Hermia makes it out the mud, Demetrius gets invested in astrology, Helena stands up for herself, Lysander books it, and the GM is briefly possessed by the spirit of Detective Benoit Blanc around minute eighteen.
  • by Shakespeare on the Lawn
    Demetrius makes a friend, Lysander discovers his flow, Helena performs an MMA move, and Hermia flies solo.
  • by Shakespeare on the Lawn
    Demetrius unsheathes a legendary blade, Hermia is a beast, Helena does her civic duty, and Lysander has a signature scent.
  • by Shakespeare on the Lawn
    The setup episode! We overview our concept, game system, character sheets, and more.