Local Schools Invited to Participate In Antony and Cleopatra Project

Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre (PICT) is seeking a minimum of ten schools in the region to participate in a theatre education initiative accompanying its May production of William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. Teachers at participating schools will receive extensive educational materials related to the works of Shakespeare and specific to PICT's production of Antony and Cleopatra. Prior to attending the student matinee performance, teaching artists will visit the schools to prepare students for the play. PICT's Producing Artistic Director, Andrew S. Paul will also visit the schools in April.

PICT's production of Antony and Cleopatra is helmed by Barrymore Award-winning director James J. Christy (PICT's 2009 King Lear), and stars nationally-known Shakespearean actor Sam Tsoutsouvas as Antony and the incomparable Helena Ruoti as Cleopatra. Participating students will have the opportunity to work with artists and educators affiliated with the production before and after attending a performance.

PICT is one of 40 nonprofit, professional theater companies that received a grant of $25,000 to participate in Shakespeare for a New Generation from June 1, 2010-May 31, 2011. Part of the NEA's Shakespeare in American Communities initiative, Shakespeare for a New Generation introduces middle- and high-school students to the power of live theater and the masterpieces of William Shakespeare. Managed by Arts Midwest, the program has benefited more than 1.5 million students and their teachers with live performances and educational activities since the program began in 2003.

"We are proud to support bringing Shakespeare to America's students," said NEA Chairman Rocco Landesman. "I have seen firsthand how the productions supported through Shakespeare for a New Generation have connected youth with Shakespeare - sometimes for the first time - inspiring them and creating the next generation of audiences. At the same time, this funding increases work opportunities for our theater artists."