Cross the Line! 

City Unites in a First Time, Round the Clock, Urban Shakespeare Event

From the Ruins at Tower Grove Park to the Kirkwood Train Station. From home parties and schools to libraries and bookstores. From a Shakespeare trivia night to a “Shakes-beer” tasting. From painting and dancing at Belas Artes to performing at Commerce Bank’s lunchroom. From the city to the suburbs. From the Loop to Shakespeare Glen. William Shakespeare is preparing to hit the city with SHAKE 38!

Beginning at 6AM on Tuesday, May 25, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis’ SHAKE-38 will introduce the first city- wide marathon reading of William Shakespeare’s 38 plays. For 38 hours, groups throughout the city will be hosting a multitude of events, paying homage to the complete works of the Bard. The event will conclude at 8PM on Wednesday, May 26, with the first preview performance of HAMLET in Shakespeare Glen, Forest Park.

“The response to Shake 38 has been tremendous!” said Rick Dildine, Executive Director. “We set out to create a unique performance experience, drawing upon the depth of talent in St. Louis, and the creativity from all parts of the city is proof this is a vibrant, innovative community. For 38 hours straight the plays of William Shakespeare will be happening in all forms around the city, culminating in our first preview of HAMLET. And I’m going to all 38!”

Groups from all around the St. Louis area have been planning individual events for weeks to be a part of this city-wide collaboration. All have united with a single goal of bringing Shakespeare to unexpected locations and making it accessible and fun for all involved.

If you have questions about this “marathon of Shakespearean individualism” please contact Andrew Kuhlman, Assistant Producer at Shake38@sfstl.com or (314) 531-9800 ext 113. For a complete list of those involved, times, plays and locations, click here.