The Old Globe Celebrates Tour of Shakespeare's First Folio Beginning Today

The Old Globe and the San Diego Public Library were selected last year to co-host the only stop in California for FIRST FOLIO! THE BOOK THAT GAVE US SHAKESPEARE, on tour from the Folger Shakespeare Library, a national traveling exhibition organized by the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, DC to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death.

Produced in association with Cincinnati Museum Center and the American Library Association, FIRST FOLIO! THE BOOK THAT GAVE US SHAKESPEARE, on tour from the Folger Shakespeare Library offers a rare glimpse of the Shakespeare First Folio, one of the world's most significant books, as it visits all 50 states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico. The treasured volume will be on display free-of-charge to the public at the San Diego Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common from June 4 through July 7, 2016.

In addition, The Old Globe and the San Diego Pubic Library - in partnership with the University of California San Diego, the University of San Diego, San Diego State University, the San Diego Public Library Foundation, and media partner KPBS - have announced a spring and summer schedule of free Shakespeare-related programs for children, adults, and families.

When it arrives in San Diego, the First Folio will be opened to the most quoted line from Shakespeare and one of the most quoted lines in the world: Hamlet's "To be or not to be." Accompanying the rare book will be a multi-panel exhibition exploring the significance of Shakespeare then and now, as well as the importance of the First Folio. A supplemental exhibition will showcase original props, costumes, photographs, and ephemera from The Old Globe's 80-year archive, with a focus on the productions of Shakespeare that have made the Globe one of the most important Shakespeare theatres in North America. The exhibition will be located at the San Diego Central Library @ Joan ? Irwin Jacobs Common in the Art Gallery on the 9th floor. Exhibit hours are Monday - Thursday, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Friday - Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday 12:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. It will be free and open to the public, but due to its popularity, tickets are highly recommended and will be available on FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org. Visitors to the library will also have the opportunity to see rare and exquisite editions of works by and about Shakespeare from the San Diego Public Library's collection on display in the Hervey Family Rare Book Room adjacent to the Art Gallery.

For information about event details, ticket availability, and RSVP procedures, visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org.

Related programming, which will begin in March, will include live performances, panel discussions, interactive experiences, film screenings, family workshops, and more. The opening event, Shakespeare in America, on Saturday, June 4, at 8:00 p.m., officially kicks off the celebrations surrounding the First Folio exhibition. Beloved actors from The Old Globe's history and other celebrities will read selections from Shakespeare and other material from eminent Shakespeare scholar James Shapiro's Library of America book, Shakespeare in America, which explores the long, deep relationship between the Bard and our country. Shapiro will host the event, along with journalist Jeremy McCarter and Old Globe Artistic Director Barry Edelstein.

FIRST FOLIO! THE BOOK THAT GAVE US SHAKESPEARE, on tour from the Folger Shakespeare Library, will also involve several scholars-James Shapiro, Seth Lerer, and Abraham Stoll-who will help develop and participate in local programming for the exhibition:

- James Shapiro currently serves as Larry Miller Professor of English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University and is on the Board of Governors of the Folger. An internationally renowned Shakespeare scholar, he is highly regarded as an interpreter of Shakespeare for a wide public by making complex ideas in Shakespeare's work accessible and immediate. Shapiro is especially interested in developing programming that examines how Shakespeare has influenced Asian and Latino American cultures in this region. In 2013, Shapiro visited The Old Globe to participate in the first installment of a new series of humanities discussions. During the sold-out event, Barry Edelstein In Conversation with James Shapiro, the two Shakespeareans explored themes in the Bard's canon, current trends in American Shakespeare, and controversies surrounding The Merchant of Venice.

- Seth Lerer, Distinguished Professor of Literature and former Dean of Arts and Humanities at UC San Diego, is widely published on many subjects in early modern English and in particular in the history of the First Folio. A gifted lecturer, Lerer is a familiar media presence in San Diego. He is also working on collaboration with others on the UC San Diego Humanities faculty to develop programming surrounding the exhibition.

- Abraham Stoll, Professor of English and Affiliated Professor of Graduate Theatre at USD, specializes in Renaissance and early modern literature, particularly the literature of 17th-century England. Stoll has been a frequent scholar at the Folger Library and the Folger Institute. He will work with the other scholars to develop and implement the program and will also incorporate the First Folio exhibit into the Shakespeare text course he teaches in The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program in classical acting.

See details below about the programming schedule for FIRST FOLIO! THE BOOK THAT GAVE US SHAKESPEARE, on tour from the Folger Shakespeare Library. For up-to-date program schedules as they evolve as well as ticketing information, see The Old Globe website at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org.

"I'm hugely excited about the arrival of the First Folio in San Diego, and I am pleased and proud of all the wonderful events the Globe and our amazing partners have prepared," said Old Globe Artistic Director Barry Edelstein. "This citywide celebration of Shakespeare will have the range, scope, and richness of the Bard himself. There's something for everyone, from the certified Shakespeare geek like me to the youngest San Diegan meeting this great writer for the first time. The Old Globe and I look forward to sharing our love of Shakespeare, and I know that San Diegans and Californians from around the state will have a fascinating and meaningful time."

"We have an exciting lineup of First Folio events from March to July throughout the library system, at The Old Globe, and on the campuses of our university partners," said San Diego Public Library Director Misty Jones. "The Library is excited to welcome visitors from across California and surrounding states to see the First Folio and visit locations throughout San Diego for top-quality programs that highlight Shakespeare's enduring relevance today."

Many of Shakespeare's plays, which were written to be performed, were not published during his lifetime. The First Folio was the first collected edition of Shakespeare's plays. It was published in 1623, seven years after Shakespeare's death. Two of Shakespeare's fellow actors compiled 36 of his plays, hoping to preserve them for future generations. Without it, we would not have 18 of Shakespeare's plays, including Macbeth, Julius Caesar, Twelfth Night, The Tempest, Antony and Cleopatra, The Comedy of Errors, and As You Like It. All 18 appeared for the first time in print in the First Folio and would otherwise have been lost.

The Folger Shakespeare Library holds 82 copies of the First Folio, by far the largest collection in the world and more than a third of the 233 known copies in the world today. It is believed that 750 copies were originally printed.

Throughout this special celebration of the First Folio, all partner organizations will be sharing exciting news and inside information about the events. Everyone is encouraged to visit our social media pages and use our First Folio hashtag, #FirstFolioSD, and Folger Shakespeare Library's hashtag, #SHX400. The Old Globe can be found on all platforms at @TheOldGlobe. San Diego Public Library can be found at @SDPLCentral on Facebook and @SDPublicLibrary on Twitter and Instagram.

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FIRST FOLIO! THE BOOK THAT GAVE US SHAKESPEARE
on tour from the Folger Shakespeare Library
San Diego Exhibitions and Events

First Folio Exhibitions:

Saturday, June 4 - Thursday, July 7, 2016

FIRST FOLIO! THE BOOK THAT GAVE US SHAKESPEARE
on tour from the Folger Shakespeare Library

Shakespeare's First Folio will be available for viewing and opened to the page with "To be or not to be" from Hamlet. Accompanying the rare book will be a multi-panel exhibition exploring the significance of Shakespeare, then and now, as well as the importance of the First Folio. A supplemental exhibition will showcase original props, costumes, photographs, and ephemera from The Old Globes 80-year archive, with a focus on the productions of Shakespeare that have made the Globe one of the most important Shakespeare theatres in North America.

Location: Art Gallery, 9th Floor,
San Diego Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common.

Gallery Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Friday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; and Sundays 12:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Charge and RSVP: Free of charge and open to the public, but due to its popularity tickets are highly recommended. Timed admission runs every 30 minutes, and a limited number of drop-in tickets will be available at the Central Library each day. Tickets available beginning April 23, to coincide with Shakespeare's birthday, at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 236-5800.

Saturday, June 4 - Thursday, July 7, 2016

Publishing Shakespeare

The printing of the First Folio was followed by the publication of many important volumes of historical interest. The San Diego Public Library is pleased to present rare and exquisite editions of works by and about Shakespeare. Drawing from its rare book collection, the exhibition will include more than 50 beautifully produced books and prints spanning four centuries of publishing and book art. Important publications include a 1685 copy of The Taming of the Shrew from the fourth folio; a 1769 David Garrick adaptation of Romeo and Juliet; an 1827 edition of Shakespeare's Works with a fore-edge painting of Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon; Complete Works, edited by Duyckinck and published by Porter and Coates in 1876; the 12-volume limited edition of Works, edited by Israel Gollancz, printed on handmade paper and published in 1899; the Seymour Eaton Shakespeare Rare Print Collection featuring portraits of 17th-19th century English and American actors and actresses; Poems of Shakespeare, illustrated by Bruce Rogers in 1941; editions with pictures designed and cut by Mary Grabhorn in the 1950s from San Francisco's famous Grabhorn Press; several Doves Press editions; and various editions featuring fore-edge paintings and miniature volumes.

Location: Hervey Family Rare Book Room, 9th Floor,
San Diego Central Library @ Joan ? Irwin Jacobs Common.

Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Charge and RSVP: Free of charge and open to the public, no tickets necessary. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or (619) 236-5800.

Signature Events:

Saturday, June 4, 8:00 p.m.

Shakespeare in America

This opening event officially kicks off the celebrations surrounding FIRST FOLIO! THE BOOK THAT GAVE US SHAKESPEARE. Beloved actors from The Old Globe's history and other celebrities and dignitaries will read selections from Shakespeare and other material from James Shapiro's new Library of America book, Shakespeare in America, which explores the long, deep relationship between Shakespeare and our country. Shapiro will host the event, along with journalist Jeremy McCarter and Old Globe Artistic Director Barry Edelstein.

An earlier version of this program premiered at The Public Theater (Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director; Patrick Willingham, Executive Director) in New York City under the title Public Forum: Shakespeare in America. The Public Forum series of performances and conversations is directed by Jeremy McCarter.

Location: Lowell Davies Festival Theatre at The Old Globe.

Charge and RSVP: Free event with reservation required, limited availability. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 23-GLOBE.

Sunday, June 5, 1:30 p.m.

Barry Edelstein In Conversation with James Shapiro

This event brings together The Old Globe Artistic Director and noted Shakespearean Barry Edelstein with longtime friend and internationally renowned Shakespeare scholar James Shapiro to discuss the impact Shakespeare's First Folio has had on Western culture.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan ? Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Saturday, June 11, 11:00 a.m.

Thinking Shakespeare Live!-Folio Edition

A 90-minute exploration of the language of Shakespeare, which is back with two showings this summer. Led by Old Globe Artistic Director Barry Edelstein and assisted by professional classical actors, this popular program reveals a performer's approach to Shakespearean language so audiences may easily understand the poetry of the Bard. This special edition will focus on the First Folio and what it has to offer to modern-day audiences and performers. Based on Edelstein's book Thinking Shakespeare: A How-To Guide for Student Actors, Directors, and Anyone Else Who Wants to Feel More Comfortable with the Bard, the program is an ideal introduction to Shakespeare for families and young audiences as well as an exciting new look at the playwright for Bardophiles.

Location: Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage in the Old Globe Theatre,
part of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center at The Old Globe

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Saturday, June 25, 11:00 a.m.

Thinking Shakespeare Live!-Folio Edition

A 90-minute exploration of the language of Shakespeare, which is back with two showings this summer. Led by Old Globe Artistic Director Barry Edelstein and assisted by professional classical actors, this popular program reveals a performer's approach to Shakespearean language so audiences may easily understand the poetry of the Bard. This special edition will focus on the First Folio and what it has to offer to modern-day audiences and performers. Based on Edelstein's book Thinking Shakespeare: A How-To Guide for Student Actors, Directors, and Anyone Else Who Wants to Feel More Comfortable with the Bard, the program is an ideal introduction to Shakespeare for families and young audiences as well as an exciting new look at the playwright for Bardophiles.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan ? Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Panel Discussions:

Monday, June 6, 6:00 p.m.

How the University of California Makes Shakespeare New

Seth Lerer, Distinguished Professor of Literature at UC San Diego, leads a panel discussion to explore the contributions of the University of California system to Shakespeare scholarship and public outreach. Panel participants include Francis Dolan, Professor of English at UC Davis; Heidi Brayman Hackel, Associate Professor of English at UC Riverside; Jeffrey Knapp, Professor of English at UC Berkeley; Julia Lupton, Professor of English at UC Irvine; Patricia Fumerton, Professor of English at UC Santa Barbara; and Robert Watson, Professor of English at UCLA.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Monday, June 13, 6:00 p.m.

Shakespeare on the American Stage: The Director and the Text

Barry Edelstein, Artistic Director of The Old Globe, and Brian Kulick, Artistic Director of Classic Stage Company in New York, discuss the rewards and challenges of directing Shakespeare on stage, including Kulick's production ofMacbeth at The Old Globe.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Monday, June 20, 6:00 p.m.

Engaging Shakespeare

James Evans, Associate Artistic Director of Bell Shakespeare in Australia, and Freedome Bradley-Ballentine, Director of Arts Engagement at The Old Globe, discuss issues of diversity and outreach as they related to Shakespeare.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Monday, June 27, 6:00 p.m.

Versions of Shakespeare: A Roundtable Discussion

The First Folio was not the first version of Shakespeare, and it has not been the last. It is the essential anchor to a remarkable array of retellings, rewritings, reprintings, abridgements, bowdlerizations, translations, films, operas, paintings, ballets, coffee mugs, and moveable action figures. Participants will each bring in a version of Shakespeare for a show and tell, leading to a roundtable discussion. This event will paint a variegated picture of Shakespeare and welcome participation by all those in attendance. Participants include Ray Chambers, Associate Professor and Head of Acting, Graduate Theatre at USD; Peter Herman, Professor, Department of English and Comparative Literature at SDSU; and Abraham Stoll, Professor of English and Affiliated Professor of Graduate Theatre at USD.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Film Screenings:

Curated by D.J. Hopkins, Ph.D.,
Director of the School of Theatre, Television, and Film at San Diego State University

Thursday, June 9, 6:00 p.m.

The Tempest

Directed by Julie Taymor, 2010. Shakespeare's Prospero is reconceived as Prospera in Taymor's compelling screen version of Shakespeare's last play. Marooned on a distant island with her daughter, Prospera (played by Academy Award winner Helen Mirren) uses her magic to raise a torrential storm, bringing her enemies to the island and vengeance within her reach. Discussion moderator: D.J. Hopkins. Guest speaker: Jennifer Thorn, Associate Artistic Director of MOXIE Theatre.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 23-GLOBE.

Thursday, June 16, 6:00 p.m.

Throne of Blood

Directed by Akira Kurosawa, 1957. This visually stunning adaptation of Macbeth sets Shakespeare's story of ambition and duplicity in feudal Japan, fusing classical Western tragedy with Noh theatre. A war-hardened general receives a prophecy that he will become lord of Spiderweb Castle, and goaded by his ambitious wife, he works to fulfill his destiny-at any cost. Discussion moderator: D.J. Hopkins. Guest speaker: Daisuke Miyao, Professor of Literature at UC San Diego.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 23-GLOBE.

Thursday, June 23, 6:00 p.m.

Hamlet

Directed by Michael Almereyda, 2000. This inventive adaptation is set in present day Manhattan, where Hamlet is reimagined as a thoughtful young filmmaker who finds himself seeking revenge against his devious, dangerous uncle, head of the huge Denmark Corporation. Almereyda's adventurous take on Shakespeare's tragedy features a star-studded cast including Ethan Hawke, Julia Stiles, Kyle MacLachlan, and Bill Murray. Discussion moderator: Danielle Mages Amato. Guest speaker: D.J. Hopkins, Professor of Theatre, Television, and Film at SDSU.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 23-GLOBE.

Thursday, June 30, 6:00 p.m.

10 Things I Hate About You

Directed by Gil Junger, 1999. Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew is transformed into a teen movie set in an American high school starring Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. A nerdy new student goes to great lengths to woo the prettiest girl in school, whose controlling father won't allow her to date until her antisocial older sister does. Enter bad boy Patrick, who turns their lives upside down and finds love in the unlikeliest of places. Discussion moderator: D.J. Hopkins. Guest speaker: Danielle Mages Amato, Literary Manager/Dramaturg at The Old Globe.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 23-GLOBE.

Thursday, July 7, 6:00 p.m.

Caesar Must Die

Directed by Paolo and Vittorio Taviani, 2013. This internationally acclaimed film follows inmates at a high-security prison in Rome as they prepare for a public performance of Julius Caesar. Shakespeare's classic tale of ambition and betrayal is reimagined in this visceral, contemporary production. Discussion moderator: D.J. Hopkins. Guest speaker: Antonio Iannotta, Artistic Director and San Diego Italian Film Festival.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 23-GLOBE.

The Old Globe 2016 Summer Shakespeare Festival

Sunday, June 19 - Sunday, July 24

Macbeth

Directed by renowned Shakespearean Brian Kulick on The Old Globe's beautiful outdoor stage. Tempted by an evil prophecy, and encouraged by his wife ever deeper into his own dark ambition, Macbeth murders his way to the throne of Scotland. Shakespeare's chilling tragedy is filled with ferocious battles, supernatural horrors, famously gorgeous poetry, and some of the Bard's most vivid characters. A stellar cast will electrify the San Diego night with a stunning rendition of one of Shakespeare's masterpieces.

Location: Lowell Davies Festival Theatre at The Old Globe

Charge and RSVP: Open to the public, tickets required, beginning at $29. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Sunday, August 14 - Sunday, September 18

Love's Labor's Lost

The King of Navarre and his three schoolmates vow to embrace their studies-and not embrace girls-for three whole years. But the instant they take that vow, the Princess of France arrives with her three beautiful attendants, and all bets are off. Shakespeare's delightful romantic comedy is an unabashed celebration of innocence, idealism, and the sweet folly of young love. Tony Award winner Kathleen Marshall makes her Old Globe directing debut with this intoxicating classic under the San Diego stars.

Location: Lowell Davies Festival Theatre at The Old Globe

Charge and RSVP: Open to the public, tickets required, beginning at $29. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Monday, August 15

Summer Shakespeare Studio

An intensive four-week theatremaking program for teens at The Old Globe that will culminate in a final performance that combines Shakespearean scenes, soliloquies, and sonnets with original material generated by the students. A fun-filled night of the Bard for the whole family.

Location: Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage in the Old Globe Theatre,
part of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center at The Old Globe

Charge and RSVP: For information, visit TheOldGlobe.org/SummerStudio.

Special Events:

Sunday, April 3, 2:00 p.m.

Tea with the Bard

Selected Shakespeare readings along with complimentary tea, coffee, and scones provided by the Brick & Bell Café. The readings will be expertly directed by Cherie Peacock of The San Diego Shakespeare Society & the Shakespeare Academy.

Location: La Jolla/Riford Branch Library.

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (858) 552-1657.

Friday, April 22, 2:00 p.m.

Follow the Folio: The Fascinating History of Shakespeare on Paper

Many people know the history of William Shakespeare the man, but how about the history of Shakespeare's words: the famous First Folio, compiled in 1623, nearly a decade after his death, by his friends, admirers and fellow authors? In this talk, audiences will follow the 400-year history of these printed copies of Shakespeare's plays as they track the (sometimes rocky) course these works have taken to be with us today. Attendees will also get to examine a facsimile (that is, an exact replica) of the First Folio up close to get a look inside the pages that will be locked away behind glass at the 2016 exhibition.

Location: San Carlos Branch Library.

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 527-3430.

Sunday, May 1, 2:00 p.m.

Tea with the Bard

Selected Shakespeare readings along with complimentary tea, coffee, and scones provided by the Brick & Bell Café. The readings will be expertly directed by Cherie Peacock of The San Diego Shakespeare Society & the Shakespeare Academy.

Location: La Jolla/Riford Branch Library.

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (858) 552-1657.

Wednesday, May 4, 5:00 p.m.

Second Annual USD Medieval and Renaissance Studies Lecture: Shakespeare's First Folio

Seth Lerer, Distinguished Professor of Literature at UC San Diego, sets the stage for the First Folio exhibition by illuminating the volume and its vital importance as a material object, a cultural artifact, and a literary text. Reception to follow. Sponsored by the Medieval and Renaissance Studies Program, the Department of English, and The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program.

Location: Mother Rosalie Hill Hall Warren Auditorium
at University of San Diego

Charge and RSVP: Free event, reservations required. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org.

Sunday, June 5 - Thursday, July 7

Something Wicked This Way: A Shakespeare Alternate Reality Game

The First Folio arrives at the San Diego Central Library Art Gallery, but is there a mystery lurking about the exhibit? Find out in this month-long Shakespeare-based ARG where you follow a riveting narrative through clues, puzzles, and events centered on the Bard and the First Folio. This game will be based in the real world using different media and will take place both online and at San Diego Public Library and The Old Globe locations. Help solve this mystery most foul!

Location: Look for the entry point to the game at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org.

Charge and RSVP: Free event, no ticketing required.

Sunday, June 5, 2:00 p.m.

Tea with the Bard

Selected Shakespeare readings along with complimentary tea, coffee, and scones provided by the Brick & Bell Café. The readings will be expertly directed by Cherie Peacock of The San Diego Shakespeare Society & the Shakespeare Academy.

Location: La Jolla/Riford Branch Library.

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (858) 552-1657.

Wednesday, June 15, 6:30 p.m.

Follow the Folio: The Fascinating History of Shakespeare on Paper

Many people know the history of William Shakespeare the man, but how about the history of Shakespeare's words: the famous First Folio, compiled in 1623, nearly a decade after his death, by his friends, admirers and fellow authors? In this talk, audiences will follow the 400-year history of these printed copies of Shakespeare's plays as they track the (sometimes rocky) course these works have taken to be with us today. Attendees will also get to examine a facsimile (that is, an exact replica) of the First Folio up close to get a look inside the pages that will be locked away behind glass at the 2016 exhibition.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 236-5800.

Saturday, June 18, 10:30 a.m.

Food, Drink, and Manners at Shakespeare's Table

Shakespeare and his contemporaries enjoyed a varied diet by contemporary standards, enlivened by spices from Asia, vegetables from the Middle East and New World, and pickling and preserving techniques that made vivid flavors available all year. Everything was served according to the class of the diners-common folk ate heartily but simply, while noble banquets featured edible sculptures designed to mystify guests as to what they were eating. This lecture will cover food, drink, manners, and the daily life of a creative age.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 236-5800.

Wednesday, June 22, 6:30 p.m.

Collecting Shakespeare: The Story of Henry and Emily Folger

Author Stephen H. Grant will recount the American success story of Henry and Emily Folger of Brooklyn, a couple who were devoted to each other, in love with Shakespeare, and bitten by the collecting bug. Shortly after marrying in 1885, the Folgers started buying, cataloging, and storing all manner of items about Shakespeare and his era. The Folger Library provided Grant with unprecedented access to the primary sources within the Folger vault. He drew on interviews with surviving Folger relatives and visits to 35 related archives in the United States and Britain to create a portrait of the remarkable couple who ensured that Shakespeare would have a beautiful home in America.

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 236-5800.

Free Public Performances

Friday, March 18, 8:00 p.m.

Measure for Measure | Medida por Medida: A Bilingual Play

Artists from all over the San Diego will gather to recreate Shakespeare's play Measure for Measure with a Latino spin. Set in a fictional border town, the play features characters speaking in both Shakespeare's English and modern-day Spanish to create a unique experience for audiences. Join them as they bring the Bard to the border!

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 236-5800.

Saturday, March 19, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Measure for Measure | Medida por Medida: A Bilingual Play

Artists from all over the San Diego will gather to recreate Shakespeare's play Measure for Measure with a Latino spin. Set in a fictional border town, the play features characters speaking in both Shakespeare's English and modern-day Spanish to create a unique experience for audiences. Join them as they bring the Bard to the border!

Location: Neil Morgan Auditorium,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 236-5800.

Wednesday, April 20, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Shakespeare Sonnetathon!

Come one, come all to this inappropriately festive observance of the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death. All members of the USD community and the public are welcome to join in this afternoon of fun with a shared reading (or reciting, if you can!) of Shakespeare's 154 sonnets and some favorite sonnets by other poets. Refreshments will also be served. Co-sponsored by Sigma Tau Delta, the Department of English, and the Medieval and Renaissance Studies Program.

Location: French Parlor, Founders Hall at the University of San Diego

Charge and RSVP: Free event, reservations are not required. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org.

Friday, April 22 - Friday, June 3

Kiss by the Book: SDSU's First Folio Performance Project

Experience the beauty, poetry, timelessness, and power of Shakespeare's First Folio through live theatrical performance at your local branch library. These performances will take place in unexpected spaces at select San Diego Public Library locations between April 22 and June 3. Performed by the talented students of SDSU's Theatre Program, the Kiss by the Book project is comprised of short modules, each of which focuses on a substantial scene or monologue from a play by Shakespeare that was first published in the 1623 Folio. Kiss by the Book is produced by SDSU's School of Theatre, Television, and Film, adapted and directed by Rachel Nicole Pierce (Hoey).

Locations: Various San Diego Public Library Branch Locations.

Charge and RSVP: Free event, reservations are not required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org for location updates.

Saturday, April 23, 10:00 a.m.

Pop-Up Shakespeare: The St. Crispin's Day Speech

Celebrate the Bard's birthday (and death day) with a short pop-up performance of the St. Crispin's Day speech from Henry V featuring characters in full medieval armor!

Locations: Kensington/Normal Heights Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event, reservations are not required. More information at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or (619) 533-3974.

Saturday, April 23, 12:00 p.m.

Pop-Up Shakespeare: The St. Crispin's Day Speech

Celebrate the Bard's birthday (and death day) with a short pop-up performance of the St. Crispin's Day speech from Henry V featuring characters in full medieval armor!

Locations: Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, reservations are not required. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or (619) 236-5800.

Saturday, April 23, 3:00 p.m.

Pop-Up Shakespeare: The St. Crispin's Day Speech

Celebrate the Bard's birthday (and death day) with a short pop-up performance of the St. Crispin's Day speech from Henry V featuring characters in full medieval armor!

Locations: 3:00 p.m. - Mira Mesa Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event, reservations are not required. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or (858) 538-8165.

Thursday, June 2, 10:00 a.m.

A Midsummer Night's Circus

Inspired by A Midsummer Night's Dream, the LindleyLopez Circus will infuse dialogue from Shakespeare's play with English choral singing, Greek chorus, and the ancient art of circus. Characters from the play will fly through the air, juggle, dance, perform acrobatics, and thrill audiences of all ages! Come experience Shakespeare's work through the unique and dazzling world of circus. Smiles guaranteed.

Location: Performance Annex at the City Heights/Weingart Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event. No ticketing required. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or (619) 641-6100.

Friday, June 3, 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

A Midsummer Night's Circus

Inspired by A Midsummer Night's Dream, the LindleyLopez Circus will infuse dialogue from Shakespeare's play with English choral singing, Greek chorus, and the ancient art of circus. Characters from the play will fly through the air, juggle, dance, perform acrobatics, and thrill audiences of all ages! Come experience Shakespeare's work through the unique and dazzling world of circus. Smiles guaranteed.

Location: Performance Annex at the City Heights/Weingart Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event. No ticketing required. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or (619) 641-6100.

Saturday, June 4, 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

A Midsummer Night's Circus

Inspired by A Midsummer Night's Dream, the LindleyLopez Circus will infuse dialogue from Shakespeare's play with English choral singing, Greek chorus, and the ancient art of circus. Characters from the play will fly through the air, juggle, dance, perform acrobatics, and thrill audiences of all ages! Come experience Shakespeare's work through the unique and dazzling world of circus. Smiles guaranteed.

Location: Performance Annex at the City Heights/Weingart Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event. No ticketing required. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or (619) 641-6100.

Family Events:

Saturday, May 14, 2:00 p.m.

Have Fun with Hamlet

Introduce young children to Shakespeare's language through familiar lines of Hamlet. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will demonstrate and encourage participation in physical activities to reinforce language learning. This free one-hour family program is geared toward younger children (6 to 8 years old) but includes activities for children of ages.

Location: Carmel Valley Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (858) 552-1668.

Tuesday, May 17, 4:30 p.m. (English) and 6:00 p.m. (Spanish)

Have Fun with Hamlet

Introduce young children to Shakespeare's language through familiar lines of Hamlet. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will demonstrate and encourage participation in physical activities to reinforce language learning. This free one-hour family program is geared toward younger children but includes activities for children of ages.

Location: Valencia Park/Malcolm X Branch

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 527-3405.

Saturday, May 21, 9:30 a.m. (English) and 11:00 a.m. (Spanish)

Have Fun with Hamlet

Introduce young children to Shakespeare's language through familiar lines of Hamlet. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will demonstrate and encourage participation in physical activities to reinforce language learning. This free one-hour family program is geared toward younger children (6 to 8 years old) but includes activities for children of ages.

Location: Logan Heights Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 533-3968.

Saturday, May 21, 2:00 p.m.

Have Fun with Hamlet

Introduce young children to Shakespeare's language through familiar lines of Hamlet. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will demonstrate and encourage participation in physical activities to reinforce language learning. This free one-hour family program is geared toward younger children (6 to 8 years old) but includes activities for children of ages.

Location: Point Loma/Hervey Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 531-1539.

Saturday, May 28, 9:30 a.m. (English) and 11:00 a.m. (Spanish)

Have Fun with Hamlet

Introduce young children to Shakespeare's language through familiar lines of Hamlet. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will demonstrate and encourage participation in physical activities to reinforce language learning. This free one-hour family program is geared toward younger children (6 to 8 years old) but includes activities for children of ages.

Location: City Heights/Weingart Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 641-6100.

Saturday, May 28, 2:00 p.m.

Have Fun with Hamlet

Introduce young children to Shakespeare's language through familiar lines of Hamlet. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will demonstrate and encourage participation in physical activities to reinforce language learning. This free one-hour family program is geared toward younger children (6 to 8 years old) but includes activities for children of ages.

Location: La Jolla/Riford Branch Library

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (858) 552-1657.

Saturday, June 11, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

A Day at Court

Take part in a family kick-off event in the Sanford Children's Library to welcome the First Folio, featuring a juggler, crafts, music, and dancing.

Location: Denny Sanford Children's Library,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 236-5800.

Sunday, June 12, 1:00 p.m.

Have Fun with Hamlet

Introduce young children to Shakespeare's language through familiar lines of Hamlet. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will demonstrate and encourage participation in physical activities to reinforce language learning. This free one-hour family program is geared toward younger children (6 to 8 years old) but includes activities for children of ages.

Location: Mary Hollis Clark Conference Center,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 236-5800.

Sunday, June 12, 2:30 p.m.

Words, Words, Words

Use witty insults to gain a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's language. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will invite participants to play with words from the famous lines of Shakespeare's First Folio. This free one-hour family program will include longer scenes that work especially well with older children (9 to 12 years old).

Location: Mary Hollis Clark Conference Center,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 236-5800.

Sunday, June 12, 4:00 p.m.

Create a Folio

Learn how early printing processes influence the way we experience Shakespeare's First Folio today. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will lead a hands-on demonstration to show how early modern books were printed. Appropriate for children of all ages, this free one-hour family program includes activities that participants can take home and complete following the workshop.

Location: Mary Hollis Clark Conference Center,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 236-5800.

Saturday, June 18, 10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Globe Family Day

Celebrate William Shakespeare and the First Folio with a festive day of family activities! Tour the inner workings of The Old Globe and discover the magic of theatre. Participate in workshops that provide children and families an experience with the First Folio and Shakespeare's love of language. Join us for music, crafts, and storytelling for Shakespeare fans of all ages!

Tours are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. and are 45 minutes in length. Tours are first come, first served and open to age 9 and above.

Location: Copley Plaza at The Old Globe

Charge and RSVP: Free event, reservations not required. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Saturday, June 18, 10:30 a.m.

Have Fun with Hamlet

Introduce young children to Shakespeare's language through familiar lines of Hamlet. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will demonstrate and encourage participation in physical activities to reinforce language learning. This free one-hour family program is geared toward younger children (6 to 8 years old) but includes activities for children of ages.

Location: Hattox Hall in the Karen and Donald Cohn Education Center,
part of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center at The Old Globe

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Saturday, June 18, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

A Day at the Theater

Join in the fun with minstrels and story time, followed by children perform The Princess and the Bowling Ball, under the guidance of Stacey Wein and Literature Comes to Life.

Location: Denny Sanford Children's Library,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Reservations are required. Visit FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or call (619) 236-5800.

Saturday, June 18, 12:00 p.m.

Words, Words, Words

Use witty insults to gain a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's language. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will invite participants to play with words from the famous lines of Shakespeare's First Folio. This free one-hour family program will include longer scenes that work especially well with older children (9 to 12 years old).

Location: Hattox Hall in the Karen and Donald Cohn Education Center,
part of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center at The Old Globe

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Saturday, June 18, 1:30 p.m.

Create a Folio

Learn how early printing processes influence the way we experience Shakespeare's First Folio today. Professional teaching artists from The Old Globe will lead a hands-on demonstration to show how early modern books were printed. Appropriate for children of all ages, this free one-hour family program includes activities that participants can take home and complete following the workshop.

Location: Hattox Hall in the Karen and Donald Cohn Education Center,
part of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center at The Old Globe

Charge and RSVP: Free event, limited availability. Tickets available at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org or by calling (619) 23-GLOBE.

Saturday, June 25, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

A Day of Games

Families will learn about and participate in a variety of medieval games, organized tournament-style, to bring the past to vivid, exciting life.

Location: Denny Sanford Children's Library,
Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common

Charge and RSVP: Free event, open to all. No reservations required. More info at FirstFolioSanDiego2016.org.

Pictured: Title page with Droeshout engraving of Shakespeare. Credit: Shakespeare First Folio, 1623. Folger Shakespeare Library.

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