Most people pay lip service to the idea that Shakespeare is the greatest writer of the English language. Does this theory hold up under scrutiny? In the first hour we will watch the first season of the highly acclaimed Canadian series “Slings and Arrows” which traces a fictional production of Hamlet by a repertory company. This series points out the tensions between presenting “sacred” classical theatre and building a commercially viable enterprise. It also highlights the difficulty in dealing with neurotic actors aging out of the starring roles of their youth. It deals with ghosts, madness and other human foibles. It offers perceptive insight into what makes Shakespeare relevant. In the second hour we will read, discuss, and analyze Hamlet and try to discover what the fuss is all about.

Bring your own copy of Hamlet. Any edition is acceptable

Co-Facilitator: Priscilla Gruber

In school, what did you learn about the Pilgrims? Was it true? Discerning what is true or not is essential to understanding history. James Leowen wrote Lies My Teacher Told Me to examine how misinformation about history is used as a weapon against us. We will explore how and why this happens and consider the climate around teaching history in the past and today. Our author says simplified history prevents us from learning critical thinking skills and exploring complex human behavior. For example, on Facebook, a picture of our history reflecting a great nation always and only getting better is to deny the rich tapestry or our American experience with all its complexity and humanity. We progress through honest evaluation not by denying reality. As a side note: The U.S. Naval Academy recently banned this book.

REQUIRED BOOK: Lies My Teacher Told Me by James Leowen 

Co-Facilitator: Jo Ann Gryder

Join us as we read the play Arsenic and Old Lace , a play written in 1939 by American playwright Joseph Kesselring. It has become best known through the 1944 film adaptation starring Cary Grant and directed by Frank Capra. The play is a farcical dark comedy revolving around the Brewster family, who were descended from Mayflower settlers. Arsenic and Old Lace has also had many revivals and television productions over the years.

Scripts by Joseph Kessiring shall be provided.