If you look at theater today, you’ll find works that are either very old or relatively new, but not much in between. Few of the plays being performed date from the time between Shakespeare’s death almost 400 years ago and the late 19th century. But there are great plays — and they are full of sex, treachery, ambition and passion.If you look at theater today, you’ll find works that are either very old or relatively new, but not much in between. Few of the plays being performed date from the time between Shakespeare’s death almost 400 years ago and the late 19th century. But there are great plays — and they are full of sex, treachery, ambition and passion.