University of Delaware Receives $122,709 for Shakespeare Seminar

WASHINGTON, DC – Delaware’s Congressional Delegation announced today that the National Endowment for the Humanities has awarded a $122,709 grant to the University of Delaware for their “Shakespeare: Enacting the Text” seminar. Fifteen schoolteachers from across the nation will be selected by a committee to participate in a five-week seminar on Shakespeare in performances. The teachers will spend three weeks at the University of Delaware and two weeks in Stratford-upon-Avon, U.K., Shakespeare’s birthplace, learning to teach Shakespeare through the viewing of videotapes and live performances. “This is an great opportunity both for the participating teachers and the University of Delaware,” said Senator Biden. “U of D is and excellent school, and I applaud them for continually moving the bar higher.” “I commend the University for its commitment to humanities education,” Carper said. “The arts provide a strong foundation for our students, and help to shape our views and nurture our communities.” “This initiative demonstrates the true purpose of the arts and humanities–to sponsor cultural programs whose results reach far beyond individuals and touch entire communities,” said Congressman Mike Castle. Program Director Jay Halio says the committee expects to receive well over 100 applicants. The application process will begin in October and winners will be notified in March 2003. “We select teachers who are committed to Shakespeare, have a good mix of experience, and who want to come to UD and Stratford upon Avon,” said Halio. “The program is going into its ninth year.” Halio will be team teaching the seminar with Mr. Leslie Reidel, a colleague from the University of Delaware. Reidel is a professor in the Department of Theater. Further information about the program and application information should be directed to Mr. Halio at wtm@udel.edu after October 1, 2002.