Shakespeare’s Original First Folio Comes to San Diego

Shakespeare is timeless. After hundreds of years, him and his famed plays are still being studied by students and scholars around the world. After all, the Bard created almost two thousand words in the English language! His extraordinary talent for telling stories has been praised for ages. From heart-wrenching tragedies to cheery comedies, Shakespeare did it all. With The Old Globe right in Balboa Park, San Diego always pays tribute to this playwright’s masterpieces—and the celebration continues. Shakespeare enthusiasts will gather downtown to witness a once in a lifetime exhibition: First Folio! The Book that Gave Us Shakespeare, on tour from the Folger Shakespeare Library. Seize the opportunity to see one of literature’s most valuable pieces, Shakespeare’s legendary First Folio. Along with the exhibition, other Shakespeare related activities will be hosted at The Old Globe. San Diego is the only stop for this exhibition in California; it’s sure to be unforgettable. It starts in June, so plan your visit now!

In 1623, all but one of Shakespeare’s plays were published in an organized book, which became known as the First Folio. Two of Shakespeare’s actors, John Heminge and Henry Condell, were responsible for the creation of the text. Roughly 750 First Folios were printed, but only a fraction of them survived to present day. Some of the Bard’s most famous plays were discovered in the First Folio, as Shakespeare himself did not publish them. The 1623, First Folio brought the world some of its greatest pieces of literature—without it, we would not have plays such as Macbeth, Twelfth Night, and As You Like It. Where would we be without the haunting words of Macbeth, or the charming confidence and curiosity of Rosalind? This text is such a significant piece of history—and valued at over three million dollars. 

The Folger Shakespeare Library hosts this traveling exhibition, as they normally hold the First Folio at their onsite location in Washington DC. Aside from the original, they possess over 80 copies of the First Folio. This library is known throughout the world for its vast collection of Shakespeare’s works, along with extensive research and performances. The Folger Shakespeare Library is thrilled to share such a profound piece of history with students, other Shakespeare enthusiasts, and lovers of literature—all while honoring the 400th anniversary of the Bard’s death. 

Festivities for this event have already begun, but the central activities start on Saturday, June 4th. The First Folio will be opened to the public at 10am, displaying one of Shakespeare’s most famous lines, "To be or not to be?" from the tragedy Hamlet. Along with it, there will be information regarding Shakespeare’s ongoing influence throughout the world—how he has molded language, literature, and education on a global scale. Near this exhibition, The Old Globe will host a display of original costumes and props used almost 80 years ago. While admission to these exhibitions are free, it is an extremely anticipated event and tickets are recommended. You can get them at the door, but reserving them in advance is recommended and insures your entrance. This specific presentation is located on the ninth floor of the Art Gallery at the San Diego Central Library. A similar event will be held nearby at the Hervey Family Rare Book Room. Over 50 unique editions and volumes of Shakespeare’s plays will be on display, some of which date back to 17th century. Tickets are not needed and admission is free. This exhibit is shown every day until 6pm.

For those of you who want to participate in the festivities, there is a roundtable discussion about the various portrayals of Shakespeare throughout history. Distinguished professors of English and literature from USD and SDSU will attend the event, doing a simple "show and tell" of a version of Shakespeare. This could include modern day portrayals, paintings, films, ballets, or even action figures! The professors will fuel a discussion inspired by the item they present, allowing each attendee to share their personal opinions and insights. The audience will learn from professors and their fellow peers, providing a wide-range of thought. Held at the Neil Morgan Auditorium at the San Diego Central Library, this event will take place on June 27 at 6pm. Tickets are required for the event at no cost, as space is limited. 

If you’re looking to relax while enjoying the works of Shakespeare, various films will be shown throughout June, extending into part of July. The films will be projected at the Neil Morgan Auditorium as well. The Tempest will be shown first on June 9 at 6pm. While classified as a comedy, this play presents aspects that lend themselves to both comedy and tragedy, unlike any other play. The plot surrounds a party of individuals on a ship—some of which are celebrating a recent wedding. However, a storm strikes and forces the members of the ship to seek refuge on an isolated island. The Tempest follows the adventures of these individuals, with witty humor and suspense. On June 30, 10 Things I Hate About You will be shown. This 1999 film is a modern take on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, starring Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles. Three other films will be streamed at the auditorium as well; all require tickets, so be sure to get them in advance. 

If it’s live entertainment you prefer, several plays will take place at The Old Globe. Arguably one of Shakespeare’s most esteemed tragedies, Macbeth will kick-off the series in June. Love’s Labor’s Lost will follow, with its opening performance on August 14. The Old Globe is renowned throughout the world for its magnificent shows, being especially praised for its portrayal of Shakespeare’s many works. The actors never fail to deliver outstanding performances. Tickets for each show start at $29 and can be bought at The Old Globe’s website. 

No matter what event you attend, it will be great! San Diego is thrilled to honor such a significant figure in history, literature, and the arts. The Bard has made such an impact on the world—it’s only right to relive and applaud his achievements! Tickets and reservations for each individual event can be made by calling 619-23-GLOBE. Join San Diego in celebrating the one and only, William Shakespeare.