April 2016 marked the 450th anniversary of the
birth of William Shakespeare, a man whose degree of accomplishment extends from
theatre and literature to present-day movies and the English language itself. Shakespeare
is widely regarded as the greatest writer of the English language, and the
world's pre-eminent dramatist.
It is
easy to see his influence on other writers based upon the extensive use of his
ideas in current literature and pop culture.
Take a look at the many books and movies that are located on the display
here in the Al Harris Library to see samples of works that have been influenced
by Shakespeare’s thoughts and themes.
It is
not just new versions of the plays that live on in popular culture.
Shakespeare's plays have been translated into every major language in the
world. All across the United States, the plays are performed in schools,
theaters, and festivals. There are over
one hundred Shakespeare festivals and many permanent theaters that perform his
works. One need travel no farther than Oklahoma City to see Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park. The company’s
32nd season begins in June with Much
Ado about Nothing. The performances
will take place at the Myriad Gardens beginning June 2 and running through June
25.
