CHEYNEY, PA — On Monday, May 19, students from across Chester County will gather at Cheyney University’s Marian Anderson Music Center to perform unique adaptations of Shakespearean classics. This free, public event celebrates the enduring relevance of Shakespeare’s works while fostering creativity and storytelling among young performers.
The Chester County Shakespeare Festival, an annual tradition, brings together over 100 elementary and middle school students. Each school is given 20 minutes to present an adaptation of a Shakespearean play, staying true to the main themes while adding their own creative interpretations. Individual and group awards recognizing stage achievements will also be presented.
Adding to the festivities, a professional “Master of Revelry” will educate and entertain the audience with insights into Shakespeare’s life and work, weaving an engaging narrative about Elizabethan England.
“This festival helps students see that Shakespeare isn’t just a collection of texts, which they don’t always see as relatable. It’s something they can connect with, play with, and make their own,” said Jay Della Ragione, special events coordinator for the Chester County Intermediate Unit. “They learn about language, storytelling, and why these works still matter. But more than that, they find their voice, have fun, and realize that these centuries-old words still speak to who we are today.”
This event offers a platform for students to explore language and creativity while honoring the timeless legacy of Shakespeare, making it a cultural highlight for the community. Discover more about the Chester County Shakespeare Festival by visiting www.cciu.org/shakespeare.
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