Nowhere is the RSC's commitment to the theater–making ensemble better demonstrated than through the Histories Cycle – all eight of Shakespeare's History plays staged under the direction of Michael Boyd – a two and a half year adventure with a company of 34 actors performing, in all, 264 parts. The Cycle at The Courtyard Theatre in Stratford–upon–Avon and during an eight week run in London's Roundhouse in Spring 2008 has generated extraordinary excitement and acclaim.