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31 May 2023 - 31 May 2023

6:00PM - 8:00PM

Cosin's Library or virtual

  • Free

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This year marks the 400th anniversary of the publication of “Mr. William Shakespeare’s Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies”, better known to us today as the First Folio. The book, a landmark publication even at the time it was printed, has over time acquired iconic status and institutions owning a Folio (Durham University amongst them) now regard it as a badge of honour.

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People looking at Shakespeare's first folio

EVENT POSTPONED

As part of our programme of special events to mark this anniversary, the department will be welcoming Professor Emma Smith Professor of Shakespeare Studies, Hertford College, Oxford and Gregory Doran, Artistic Director Emeritus, Royal Shakespeare Company to talk about their encounters with Shakespeare’s First Folio(s) and their thoughts on its significance, on stage, in print and in wider culture.

The event is Durham University’s contribution to the global celebration of the landmark anniversary taking place around the world. It is also a reaffirmation of the Archives and Special Collections department’s distinguished reputation and leading expertise in book conservation through the unique story of the University’s own First Folio copy. This event provides an exciting opportunity to engage the university’s global alumni community around this landmark anniversary and to introduce the conservation project of the University’s copy of the First Folio to a small number of existing donors and prospects.

The event will be a hybrid format, with the in-person event taking place in the stunning setting of the Cosin’s Library on Palace Green. The in-conversation event is with Professor Emma Smith Professor of Shakespeare Studies, Hertford College, Oxford and Gregory Doran, Artistic Director Emeritus, Royal Shakespeare Company on the theme highlighted above. The in-conversation will be followed by a drinks reception in the Courtyard café where the guests will have an opportunity to interact individually with the speakers and members of the faculty.

Please use the booking link to register for in person attendance (limited capacity) or to be a virtual attendee.

Pricing

Free