First Annual New York Shakespeare Convention Set for This Weekend

The first annual New York Shakespeare Convention will be held today, April 25, 2015 in Speyer Hall at University Settlement (184 Eldridge Street, Manhattan) from 2-5pm.

In response to the outpouring of public interest in the plays of William Shakespeare, the independent community of artists and companies that produce his works in New York City are collaborating on a one-day spectacular to celebrate his 451st birthday week.

ShakesCon, in its inaugural year, will feature booths by Puppet Shakespeare Players, Adirondack Shakespeare Company, Manhattan Shakespeare Project, and many more! While networking, visitors to the exhibition will enjoy live music, industry panels, and birthday cake for Mr. Shakespeare.

At 7pm, host company Bottoms Dream will debut a one-night-only performance of Romeo and Juliet, in collaboration with five convention companies. Each company will perform an act of the play in their signature style. 5 Ways Shakespeare gives audiences one play with five artistic interpretations.

Convention producers Nat Angstrom and Caitlin White, of Bottoms Dream, hope that visitors to the convention will experience firsthand the groundbreaking work and potential for creativity in their community.

"ShakesCon is a destination for all actors, audiences, and educators, regardless of their familiarity with Shakespeare's plays," says White. "They can browse for programs that appeal to their individual tastes." Adds Angstrom, "This is an opportunity for those frustrated and alienated by Shakespeare's language to finally find an interpretation that connects and makes sense."

The afternoon exhibition is free of charge. Actors are encouraged to bring a headshot to drop off at registration, for distribution to member companies. There are only 100 seats available for the evening performance; tickets are $30. For a full list of companies and events, visit www.shakescon.org. Connect via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the handle @shakescon or the hashtag #ShakesCon.