The English-Speaking Union National Shakespeare Competition provides teachers across the country with a performance-based program for the study of English Language Arts and Shakespeare. It is a school-based program serving Grades 9-12. Through the Competition, students develop communication skills and an appreciation of the power of language and literature. The Competition has engaged more than 250,000 young people since its inception in 1983.

Through the English-Speaking Union National Shakespeare Competition, students:

• develop essential skills: critical thinking, close reading and public speaking
• increase self-confidence through reading, analysis and performance of Shakespeare
• explore the beauty of Shakespeare’s language and classic themes
• bring the timeless works of Shakespeare to life and learn to express his words with understanding, feeling and clarity
• meet local, state and national standards in English Language Arts and Drama.

Students read, analyze, perform and recite Shakespearean monologues and sonnets in three qualifying stages: at the school, community and national levels. Approximately 2,000 teachers and 15,000 students in nearly 60 ESU Branch communities participate each year.

The ESU National Shakespeare Competition has been recognized by the Globe Center (USA), the Children’s Theatre Foundation of America and the American Academy of Achievement. Many distinguished judges have served on the Competition panels.

•  Our first rehearsal Readthru/Singthru (ALL CALL) will be on December 12 from 4:00-6:30 PM  in the black box theatre.  NOTE: If you have a part, including all Council Members, you will need to be there. All singers are encouraged to also attend. Dancers do NOT need to attend, but of course are welcome.  (If you are interested, we will have an Open Mic night after rehearsal). 

•  ALL HAIRSPRAY PARTICIPATION LETTERS NEED TO BE RETURNED AND SIGNED BY FRIDAY DEC 5 OF THIS WEEK.  ** if you did not receive a contract, just come by and pick one up, or download the attachment, get it signed, and turn it in.  Parents, please feel welcome to add any other skills or ways that you might be able to assist with the production, even if they aren’t listed on the page. 

• If there is another email address that you would like added to this email group list, please also let me know so that I can keep you up-to-dat