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The Shakespeare Society was founded in 1997 for people who share a passion for Shakespeare and a desire to understand and appreciate the greatest playwright of the English language.

The society presents entertaining and challenging programs that combine stage performances by outstanding actors with illuminating commentary by noted Shakespearean writers, scholars and directors. Five events are presented from September to June.

Members can take part in programs such as Study Seminars, Speak the Verse, Small Venue Events and receive discounts to local Shakespeare productions of other organizations.

Study Seminars, taught by Ruth Carpenter, focus on in-depth discussions of the plays over an eight-week period. Speak the Verse seminars provide members with the opportunity to learn to speak Shakespeare's verse. Teachers have included Barry Ingham, Roger Rees, Steven Skybell, Joe Plummer, Kristin Linklater and Kate Forbes.