See The Folger Shakespeare Library's "First Folio! The Book That Gave Us Shakespeare" Before Nationwide Tour

Washington, DC, December 3, 2015 (Newswire.com) -  

Contact: Garland Scott  1-202-675-0342   [email protected] 

WHERE: Folger Shakespeare Library (201 E Capitol St, SE, Washington, DC 20003)

WHEN: Tuesday, December 8, 2015 from 6pm – 8:30pm

WHAT: Join us for a private preview of the traveling exhibition First Folio! The Book that Gave Us Shakespeare. In commemoration of the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare's death, the Folger Shakespeare Library — home to the world's largest Shakespeare collection — is sending a First Folio to all 50 states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico for exhibit at 23 museums, 20 universities, six public libraries, and three historical societies in 2016.

This exclusive reception features a preview of the traveling exhibition, photo opportunities with a First Folio, and the chance to examine other rare materials from the Folger’s vaults. Members of Congress will also be recording short videos to share with their constituents about their personal experience and connections with Shakespeare and his works. In 2016, the Folger is inviting the world, including celebrities and literati, to record and share their videos on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube using the hashtag #MySHX400.

In addition to the First Folio national tour, a number of exhibitions, performances, lectures, and other special events —online, at the Folger, and on the road — will be taking place throughout 2016 as part of The Wonder of Will, a Folger celebration of Shakespeare and his extraordinary legacy. Upcoming exhibits at the Folger include Shakespeare, Life of an Icon; America's Shakespeare (also touring to Los Angeles); and Will & Jane: Shakespeare, Austen, and the Cult of Celebrity.

VISUALS:

• Photograph and film an original First Folio—one of the most valuable books in the world and one of a group going on tour in 2016​
   
• Prominent literary figures and members of Congress gathering around the display of the First Folio, to get a peek of the rare book and talking about Shakespeare’s influence on their lives
   
• Guests recording videos of themselves reciting their favorite Shakespeare line, describing the first time they experienced Shakespeare or what Shakespeare means to them, and more for the new social media campaign #MySHX400
   
• Colorful exhibition panels that tell the story of William Shakespeare and his contributions to language, arts, and culture. Panels also tell the story of the First Folio and describe how Henry Folger and his wife, Emily collected 82 First Folios—by far the largest group in the world—and founded the Folger Shakespeare Library, a block from the US Capitol.
   
• Folger Director Michael Witmore, providing tours to guests and media
   
• Close up photos of the First Folio’s title page, which displays a portrait of Shakespeare that is one of only two likenesses commissioned by those who knew him.

About the Folger Shakespeare Library: Folger Shakespeare Library is the world’s largest Shakespeare collection, the ultimate resource for exploring Shakespeare and his world. The Folger welcomes millions of visitors online and in person. We provide unparalleled access to a huge array of resources, from original sources to modern interpretations. With the Folger, you can experience the power of performance, the wonder of exhibitions, and the excitement of path breaking research. We offer the opportunity to see and even work with early modern sources, driving discovery and transforming education for students of all ages. Shakespeare belongs to you. His world is vast. Come explore. Join us online, on the road, or in Washington, D.C. Learn more at www.folger.edu

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