"Lincoln and Shakespeare"

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President, loved the works of William Shakespeare and carried a copy of the plays wherever he went.

In her book “Team of Rivals,” Doris Kearns Goodwin wrote: “The political genius of Abraham Lincoln rarely spoke of his inner feelings and often expressed emotions through the poetry he admired.”

Purcell, an active director, actor and playwright based in Southern Illinois, has crafted “Lincoln and Shakespeare,” a one-act play starring Kim Curlee, local actor, and co-starring Shay Miller and Michael Ralph. Purcell also directs the play.

“The play is a compilation of writings and speeches from Lincoln, plus research done about him,” Purcell said. “It also includes work from the plays and sonnets of Shakespeare, as well as original writing by me. Nearly all the Shakespeare has been selected because we know Lincoln loved these specific selections.

“Much of this play is based on actual historical events in Lincolns’ life,” Purcell continued. “The focus of the play is this question: Did Lincolns’ love of Shakespeare influence his writing and actions?”

Produced by the Varsity, “Lincoln and Shakespeare” will be presented at the downtown venue on Wednesday Feb. 12 – Lincoln’s birthday – at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. Admission to the performances is free; donations will be appreciated.

This production is made possible in part through a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.

For more information, contact Purcell at [email protected] or 217-801-8158.

Host or Publisher The Varsity Center