The Old Globe to Host Free HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MR. SHAKESPEARE Event This Weekend

The Old Globe invites friends, Romans, countrymen-all of San Diego, in fact-to celebrate resident playwright William Shakespeare's 453rd birthday with Happy Birthday, Mr. Shakespeare!

The celebration, held this Saturday, April 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature live music from local artist DJ Redlite, backing up our Sonnet Karaoke, led by our illustrious M.F.A. Shakespeareans. Director of Arts Engagement Freedome Bradley-Ballentine and event emcee Nadia Guevara will be on hand for interviews.

The Bard's birthday is a fitting and festive reason to recognize his countless contributions to arts and culture around the world. This exciting day of family activities is free and open to the public as part of the Globe's ongoing commitment to programs that serve all of San Diego County. Explore our indoor theatres with a costume exhibit in the Globe, and docents will be on hand to answer questions. Shakespeare-themed activities on the plaza will include a life-sized board game and create-your-own Shakespearean puppets, which can be used to perform in an interactive puppet theatre show. Grab a photo of your friends in the stocks or as the original Queen Mum, Elizabeth I. It'll be a festive day suitable for the whole family! And did we mention birthday cake?!

The event takes place on the Globe's Copley Plaza and in the Craig Noel Garden, as well as in the Old Globe Theatre and Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, part of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center. (The Old Globe is at 1363 Old Globe Way.)

Pictured: Families enjoying Happy Birthday, Mr. Shakespeare! (2016). Photo by Douglas Gates.