Written and Directed by Eva D’Amico

No Shakespeare is an immersive journey through Italian theatre and literature, featuring iconic authors from the Renaissance to the present. A group of aspiring actors struggles to choose the perfect script, offering reimagined classics and a glimpse into the dynamics of a theatre company.

A unique evening, designed for all ages, dedicated to those who love Italy and those who have always wanted to discover it.

No Shakespeare is more than a theatrical performance, it’s an opportunity to discover words and stories that have defined Italian theatre. For one night, we set aside Shakespeare and make room for a rich mosaic of Italian authors who have shaped the history of theatre and literature Carlo Goldoni, Gianni Rodari, Eduardo De Filippo and more. The show concludes with a tribute to Scotland, the company’s host country.

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The Gaudeamus Artistic Company was founded in Aberdeen in May 2023 to create a space for the Italian community to connect, socialize, and celebrate its culture through theatre. Established by a passionate group of Italians, it quickly became a cultural hub for Italians in Scotland and those interested in Italian theatre.

In September 2023, Gaudeamus became a registered charity, making it the only theatre company in Scotland to stage performances entirely in Italian, with real-time English subtitles for the Scottish audience. In January 2025, it was added to the Consular Register of Italian Cultural Associations in the UK, further solidifying its role in promoting Italian culture.

Gaudeamus aims to preserve and promote Italian language and culture, especially for new generations of Italo-Scots. We believe in the power of theatre as a tool for inclusion and cultural dialogue, breaking down barriers and connecting the Italian and local communities. Through our productions, we offer an immersive experience in Italy’s theatrical heritage, reinterpreting both classical and contemporary works, while encouraging reflection on themes like identity, integration, and cultural memory.