Many college students may have nostalgic memories of reading plays by William Shakespeare in high school or of seeing Shakespeare’s work in action at Renaissance festivals. But we are all older and more mature now, and some of us might consider Shakespeare a relic of English classes past.
But the nation’s capital apparently doesn’t think that way, as the Shakespeare in Washington fest is taking over the region until June. A six-month celebration of Shakespeare’s genius, the festival is taking place at different arts venues throughout the city and includes events ranging from traditional stage performances to exhibits of historic costumes and architecture.
The festival was orchestrated by Michael Kaiser, president of the Kennedy Center, and is curated by Michael Kahn, the artistic director for the Shakespeare Theatre Company. Kahn believes the purpose of this festival is to engender “a greater appreciation for Shakespeare and his sweeping influence,” but in reality, would the average college student be interested?
The truth is, the Shakespeare festival offers plenty of events to interest today’s college kid. When asked about specific programs aimed at college students, Kahn replied, “The festival offers a number of free events.”
While Kahn might be playing to the broke-student stereotype, he makes a good point. Not only do we have a six-month long opportunity a short Metro ride away, we don’t even have to pay anything to participate.
Kahn is more than the curator of the festival; he is also involved in several events. Currently, he is directing a production of Richard III at the Shakespeare Theatre Company.
But Kahn’s Richard III is only one way to enjoy the Shakespeare festival, as there are even some events occuring right here on the campus. For more information on the festival, visit www.shakespeareinwashington.org, and for more on-campus programs, see www.shakespeare.umd.edu.
Contact reporter Clara Morris at diversions@dbk.umd.edu.
