Celebrate the Bard's Timeless Language on Talk Like Shakespeare Day

April 23rd marks Talk Like Shakespeare Day, a whimsical celebration of the renowned playwright's distinctive language and literary legacy. This annual observance invites people around the world to embrace the poetic and theatrical expressions famously used by William Shakespeare in his plays and sonnets.

The origins of Talk Like Shakespeare Day can be traced back to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, which initiated the event in 2009 as a fun and educational way to commemorate the playwright's birthday, believed to be on April 23rd, 1564. Since then, the celebration has gained popularity, with individuals, schools, and organizations joining in the fun each year.

There are several ways to celebrate Talk Like Shakespeare Day and immerse oneself in the rich language of the Bard:

· Brush Up Your Shakespeare: Familiarize yourself with some of Shakespeare's most famous quotes and expressions. Try to work these phrases into your conversations throughout the day for a touch of theatrical flair.

· Watch a Shakespeare Play: Attend a live performance of one of Shakespeare's plays or watch a film adaptation at home. This can offer a deeper appreciation for the language and themes in his works.

· Host a Shakespearean Feast: Prepare a feast inspired by dishes mentioned in Shakespeare's plays, such as "A Midsummer Night's Dream" or "Twelfth Night." Invite friends and family to join in the festivities and encourage them to speak in Shakespearean style.

· Read Sonnets Aloud: Gather a group of friends and take turns reading Shakespeare's sonnets aloud. Try to focus on the rhythm and rhyme of the verses to fully appreciate their beauty and depth.

· Attend a Shakespearean Event: Check nearby theatres or cultural centers for special events or performances celebrating Shakespeare's works. This could include lectures, workshops, or dramatic readings.

· Dress the Part: Embrace the Elizabethan era by dressing in period costumes. Whether elaborate or simple, wearing attire inspired by Shakespeare's time can add to the festive atmosphere.

Talk Like Shakespeare Day is a lighthearted yet meaningful way to honour William Shakespeare's enduring influence and contributions to literature and language. By taking part in activities that celebrate his work, participants can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the timeless themes and language found in his plays and sonnets.

Dean LaBerge, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Grizzly Gazette