You don't need to wear a corset, or a farthingale, or a ruff, or a doublet, to feel a connection to the time of William Shakespeare.
Nor must you unleash the occasional "thine" or "wherefore" to understand that the Bard's words, themes, notions, and world view still weave into our day-to-day fabric, whether we're catching some Shakespeare in the Park or simply watching a sitcom (which probably owes some of its internal rhythms to works created long ago).
The world's most famous playwright died four hundred years ago, on April 23, 1616, but his playful and pointed plays are as piquant today as ever. With that in mind and heart, fans around Southern California will mark the anniversary of Shakespeare's passing over the fourth weekend of April 2016.
The Paley Center for Media: The scribe behind "Richard II" and "The Taming of the Shrew" is not only celebrated on the stage but on the screen, and the Beverly Hills-based museum for television will present a number of lauded televised works over the April 23 and 24 weekend. Look for the aforementioned plays, as well as "Twelfth Night," "The Tempest," and more.
Kingsmen Shakespeare Company: Join the group of thespians as they celebrate Bard Day with a host of happenings at California Lutheran University's Overton Hall. A tour, a cabaret, and a "Sonnet Brunch" are on the words-alive rundown, one that covers both days of the anniversary weekend.
Arena Cinema: Long to get your fill of Shakespeare's scintillating words, over a full week, and not pay to do it? This Hollywood spot is your place. "As You Like It," "A Midsummer's Night Dream," and more classics are just ahead. No money's required, but a reservation is (so make it now).
If Bardly beauty is your bag, and you want more dramatic treats throughout the calendar, and beyond this special anniversary weekend, best give a "forsooth!" and follow Shakespeare in LA, which regularly casts a (candle)light on William-wonderful goings-on across ye olde Southern California.
