The Shakespeare Project Of Chicago Comes To Elmhurst Library

ELMHURST, IL — Elmhurst Public Library has announced a new partnership with the Shakespeare Project of Chicago, a non-profit organization dedicated to making the bard’s words accessible to the public for free through performances by professional actors.

The library said "Pericles, Prince of Tyre" will be presented in a live performance at the library on Thursday, Oct. 25. "Pericles" is one of Shakespeare’s last plays and one of his greatest romances, the library said. The play depicts the title character suffering a long string of catastrophic events pushing him to the limits of what he can endure. A brief 15-minute lecture on the play begins at 6:15, followed immediately by the performance.

Elmhurst Public Library will host four Shakespeare Project performances throughout 2018-2019. The library is one of only eight venues chosen to partner with The Shakespeare Project this year.

Peter Garino, artistic director of Shakespeare Project of Chicago said in a release the emphasis on each performance focuses strongly on Shakespeare’s artful language. The theatrical readings are delivered by members of the Actors’ Equity Association. He describes the plays as “unplugged” experiences, free from costumes or updates that might get in the way of the playwright’s intended meaning.

“Most audiences tell us that after the first few minutes, the binders become invisible because they get so caught up in the actors’ performances,” Garino said.

“Shakespeare intended for his plays to be seen by all — not just the wealthy,” said Garino, adding that libraries are well suited for the performances because they act as gathering points in communities that advocate making information accessible to all.

You can register online at elmlib.org/register, in person, or by calling (630) 279-8696.

Image via Elmhurst Public Library.