The Bard Turns 450

The 450th anniversary of the birth of William Shakespeare was celebrated at Friendship Village Schaumburg. A series of programs and activities were planned to honor the Bard. “The residents of Friendship Village are well-educated and have diverse interests. We know many of them are avid devotees of theater and great literature…especially anything Shakespearean,” said Donna Brown, lifestyles activities manager of Friendship Village. “Celebrating the life and works of this legend is something we all really enjoyed.”

Activities began with a mid-week showing of Franco Zeffirelli’s adaptation of “Hamlet” starring Mel Gibson and Glenn Close. This was followed by a presentation by Bob Masterson of Roosevelt University Institute for Continued Learning, who talked about the life and times of William Shakespeare. Ye Olde Shakespeare Shoppe featured handcrafted wares including jewelry, flowers and food. Residents will had the opportunity to “meet” William Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth while listening to live mandolin music. The culmination of the celebration was Shakespeare in the Garden, featuring monologues and skits from some of Shakespeare’s greatest work including “Hamlet”, “Henry V”, “Romeo and Juliet” and more. Appearing, was special guest star Joe Bianco from Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier. “There was truly be something enjoyable for everyone during our celebration of Shakespeare,” said Brown.

Friendship Village is a leading Chicago-area retirement community offering a complete continuum of care including independent living garden homes and apartment homes, as well as assisted living, memory support, skilled care, and short- and long-term rehabilitation services. For more than 37 years, Friendship Village has been providing Chicago area seniors with exceptional retirement living options. For additional information visit www.FriendshipVillage.org