April marks the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare and commemorations of his life and works are taking place around the world, one of them in the Miller Library on Friday, April 22 at 3:00 p.m.
Shakespeare In April is an afternoon of readings and performances by Western New Mexico University students and community members, commemorating the work of the most recognized author in history.
“Shakespeare has been translated into nearly all the written languages in the world,” said Dr. Debbie Heller, WNMU professor of English. “His ideas transcend time and place.”
Heller has helped organize the event, which includes a performance of sonnets by university students and performances by other area talent including the Virus Theater and actor Gregg Dugan.
Leading up to the event, Heller’s students presented Shakespeare’s works in local public schools, sharing the importance and impact of the Bard’s writings for four centuries.
“Nobody should get out of college without reading Shakespeare,” said Heller. “He’s still the classic of classics, and he’s not just for students, either; he’s for everybody.”
Shakespeare In April will conclude with a roundtable discussion and opportunity for question and answers from attendees. The event is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The event is sponsored by WNMU, Western Institute For Lifelong Learning (WILL), Mimbres Region Arts Council, and the Southwest Festival of the Written Word.