Celebrating 400 Years of Shakespeare

2016 marks the 400th Anniversary of William Shakespeare's death in April of 1616. His many works have had an enormous cultural impact and we celebrate The Bard's last contributions with these programs and resources at your Milwaukee Public Library.

Shakespeare, Just for Fun!
Saturday, March 26  from 2-4 p.m., East Branch

In honor of the 400th anniversary of the Bard's death, local scholar Nick Weber presents a lighthearted lecture on Will and his works illustrated with maps, diagrams, and texts from Shakespeare's plays.

Powerful Rhyme: The Art of William Shakespeare
Tuesday, April 12 from 12 noon-7:30 p.m. Tippecanoe Branch

A day full of entertainment will include:

12-1 p.m.
Shakespeare period music, library finds and coloring.

1-2:30 p.m.
Young adult classes will discuss Shakespeare’s life as an artist along with
the enduring appeal of his work. Facilitated by local educator Shirley Minga,
this portion will include music and performances followed by sonnet slams
and workshops.

2:30-4 p.m.
Hidden Treasures of the Library: Shakespeare Rarities. Rare books librarian
Maria Cunningham will bring the First Folio facsimilie, book of his poems, a
children’s version of his works, costume plates and more from the Richard E.
and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room.

4-5:30 p.m.
To Be or Not to Be
Viewing of the classic 1942 comedy by Ernst Lubitsch featuring Carole
Lombard and Jack Benny. 1 hour and 39 minutes

6-7:30 p.m.
Local educator Shirley Minga will discuss Shakespeare’s life as an artist
along with the enduring appeal of his work. Presentation includes music and
performances and will be followed by sonnet slams and workshops.

To Be! Shakespeare Here and Now presented by Optimist Theatre
Saturday, April 23, 2 p.m., Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room, Central Library

To Be! is a one-person interactive presentation, featuring actor Ron Fry as William Shakespeare. Dynamic interpretations of excerpts from some of Shakespeare's most famous works combine with a humorous look at life in Renaissance England with plenty of opportunities for audience members to star alongside The Bard.