Denver Public Schools Celebrates 41st Annual Shakespeare Festival
Denver, CO – On a chilly Friday morning, Denver Public Schools (DPS) students, teachers, and volunteers gathered at Skyline Park for the 41st Annual Shakespeare Festival. This much-anticipated event attracted around 5,000 participants, all eager to celebrate the works of William Shakespeare through performances, music, and dance.
Participants arrived in vibrant, medieval-themed costumes, filling the park with excitement. While some practiced mock duels, others caught up with friends from various schools. The festival’s roots trace back to the 16th Street Mall, where a group of dedicated teachers initiated this student-centered celebration, now recognized as the largest and oldest Shakespeare festival in the country.
Beau Augustin, a curriculum specialist at DPS, shared that over the years, the event has grown into a cherished tradition that showcases students’ talents in Shakespearean performances. The festival offers students a rare opportunity to engage deeply with the playwright’s language, including reciting sonnets and enacting scenes.
Inside the Denver Center for Performing Arts Complex, student groups showcased their skills, including memorable performances from works like A Midsummer Night’s Dream. “It’s a challenge,” said Janine Donelson, a drama teacher at Lincoln Elementary. “But it helps students build confidence and stage presence.”
Additionally, some schools, like Holm Elementary, offered performances in Spanish, reflecting the diverse linguistic backgrounds of their students. “It’s magical,” noted Lauren Miller, a teacher at Holm celebrating her decade of participation.
As the day unfolded, it became clear that beyond performing arts, the festival fosters camaraderie and teamwork among students, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
