How much do you know about Shakespeare? Find out at Lawson McGhee Library's Shakesology

KNOXVILLE -- Do you know what famous assassin was first known for playing Mark Antony in Shakepeare's play, Julius Caesar? Which role did Shakespeare himself play in As You Like It? What was the first play performed at the Globe Theatre? Find the answers at Knox County Public Library when the Library hosts Shakesology, a new educational program developed by Tennessee Stage Company in conjunction with Shakespeare on the Square.

Shakesology begins at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 14 and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 15 in the meeting room at Lawson McGhee Library. Admission is free.

Shakesology is two sessions focusing on As You Like It and Julius Caesar, this year's Shakespeare on the Square productions. The As You Like It session is Saturday July 14 at 2:30 and the Julius Caesar session is Sunday at 2:30. Both sessions will be in the Lawson McGhee Library meeting room.

Led by Dr. Jennifer Horn and TSC Artistic Director, Tom Parkhill, the two and a half hour programs present an in-depth look at the stories behind the plays including how Shakespeare came to write them, critical and public reactions over the centuries, and production histories using videos of historic and/or unusual productions, followed by a talk about this year's productions. Workshops will end in time for participants to enjoy a leisurely meal before attending the premiere of one of the plays later that evening.

Tennessee Stage Company's outdoor productions of Shakespeare plays have become a Knoxville summer tradition. Now in its 22nd year, these productions are both a wonderful introduction or re-acquaintance with the greatest playwright in the English language. In addition to Shakesology, TSC presented Fun with Shakespeare at several library locations during June. Each month, a group gathers at Lawson McGhee Library for Shakespeare Out Loud, a round table reading of the Bard's plays.

Published June 23, 2012