Education

Shakespeare for Entertainment

Somewhere along the line, Shakespeare got a bad rap: his plays are supposed to be brilliant and good for you. In other words: dull, as well as impossible to understand. Richmond Shakespeare is dedicated to disproving this.

Staged readings:

Shakespeare's Clownes and Fooles: Shakespeare was accused of writing low-brow humor by later critics and we're on a mission to release the clown from the box by dramatizing Shakespeare's funniest scenes and goofiest characters. Along the way, you’ll find out the difference between a clown and a fool, and get acquainted with some of the things (and people) that Shakespeare chose to spoof.
Perfect for parties and meetings or as an introduction to Shakespeare. 60 minutes.

Shakespeare and Love: Excerpts from some of Shakespeare’s most romantic moments … as well as some love situations that DON’T work. Make a special day more special — bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, anniversary or engagement parties.

Riding the Tempest: Virginia’s Connection to Shakespeare. Shakespeare’s connection with the New World. Perfect for 2007 celebrations.

O Had I But Followed the Arts: Shakespeare’s take on the arts.

Fully staged pieces.

Two By Will: 60 minutes, no intermission, 2 actors.
Shakespeare himself visits contemporary audiences in person, accompanied by his Muse. Together they explain his works by performing excerpts from a wide variety of his plays and poetry. This is an unthreatening introduction to the Bard.

A Christmas Carol for Two Actors: 60 minutes, no intermission, 2 actors.
Based on the novel by Dickens, this dramatization takes us back to the heart of the story and its message about the importance of taking care of the people around us. Two actor/storytellers engage you as a stage full of turntables and fog can never do. Perfect for holiday parties.

The Sonneteer

At a loss for an unusual gift? Send a sonnet for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s (or Father’s) Day, anniversaries, bridal showers, engagements — you get the picture.
Picture an actor in Elizabethan costume delivering roses and reading a sonnet on bended knee — in the workplace, at a table at your favorite restaurant, or at the diamond counter at Tiffany's.
Go to www.thesonneteer.org to order.
A partnership with Vogue Flowers and Richmond.com .