“All the world's a stage…” acting and the art of political leadership

This essay argues that political leaders, in common with talented actors, develop skills to win over audiences. Citizens dislike fakery yet they insist their political leaders project warmth, strength, likeability and relaxed sincerity. Political leaders and actors learn how to connect with their respective audiences. Politics is full of stage-managed events, yet we rightly want much more than just acting from political leaders.