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Rethinking Shakespeare: A Plea from the Philadelphia Foundation for Public Libraries

In my role as the executive director for the non-profit organization, Philadelphia Foundation for Public Libraries, and with my experience as a former instructor in Shakespearean literature, I understand the monetary hardships that groups producing works of Shakespeare endure. However, the notion that ‘Shakespeare’s plays are generally costly and elaborate’ can prove to be deceptive, or it may at least be a narrowed viewpoint. A number of the most impactful Shakespearean performances I’ve witnessed (and occasionally participated in) have been created with tight budgets, employing sparse stage designs, basic apparel, and actors portraying multiple characters.

If the legacy of Shakespeare is to be preserved, the way forward isn’t necessarily via glamorous Broadway presentations, no matter how exhilarating they can be. The true pathway forward is through productions in educational institutions, community parks, and even parking spaces, which serve to expose Shakespeare’s plays to fresh audiences and to reinterpret the narratives and characters that have been enchanting us for hundreds of years.

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I recently eavesdropped on a discussion among budding college scholars who deplored the teaching of Shakespeare, expressing doubts on whether any of his writings could hold any significance in a world shaped by the 21st century. This, precisely, is the reason that his compositions are so adaptable, so readily twisted to reflect current events or incite debates, as we’ve observed time and again over the four centuries since they were first penned.

His creations offer in-depth reflections and explanations about the simple act of being and existing in the world. It’s a certainty that as long as human beings exist, the poems and plays crafted by Shakespeare will continue to hold a vital place in literature and will remain eternally relevant.

We currently bring to life four plays written by Shakespeare every year. As someone stepping into the tenth decade of my life, I advocate for continual motion in life. As a testament to this, I enjoyed a round of skiing on my 90th birthday and consistently indulge in physical routines to maintain an active lifestyle.

A fundamental truth is that our muscles require consistent movement to remain robust. Surges in juvenile delinquency and the parallel increase in adult criminal activities in the urban landscape of New York City are, undeniably, matters of grave concern.

The trends of escalating youth violence and corresponding adult criminal activities in New York City are, unquestionably, disturbing factors. The key to combat these pressing issues lies not merely in tackling the crimes, but primarily in addressing the root social issues contributing to the criminal behavior. Specifically, reintegrating these individuals into educational and professional environments has been shown to be an effective measure in preventing recidivist tendencies.

Notably, this preventive strategy can be implemented at a much smaller fraction of the cost it would entail to incarcerate these individuals.