AN OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

THE FOLGER SHAKESPEARE

LIBRARY

See The Folger Shakespeare Library's "First

Folio! The Book That Gave Us Shakespeare"
Before Nationwide Tour
PRESS RELEASE - DEC 3, 2015 09:59 EST - UPDATED: DEC 3, 2015 10:13 EST

MEDIA ADVISORY: Reception to offer rare glimpse of First Folio,

chance to talk to politicians, scholars about Shakespeare

Contact: Garland Scott 1-202-675-0342 gscott@folger.edu

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 Folgers 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 Folioone 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 Shakespeares 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 Foliosby far the
largest group in the worldand 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 Folios 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 worlds 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
###

Additional Links
The Folger Shakespeare Library
Categories:

Tags:

Art & Entertainment, Books

Company Contact Information

Garland Scott
The Folger Shakespeare Library
201 E Capitol St SE, Washington
DC, 20003
1-202-675-0342

art, culture, DC, exhibition, literature, national,

shakespeare, tour

Original Source: www.newswire.com