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323151976
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Folger Library 4/23/92 [OA 6101]
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323151976
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Folger Library 4/23/92 [OA 6101]
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13617-009
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Draft Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13617
Folder ID Number:
13617-009
Folder Title:
Folger Library 4/23/92 [OA 6101]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
18
1
4
60TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOLGER'S SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY
STATE DINING ROOM \ THURS. APRIL 23, 1992 \ 5:30 P.M.
o
LET ME BEGIN BY WELCOMING HER ROYAL HIGHNESS,
PRINCESS ALEXANDRA AND SIR ANGUS OGILVY TO THE
WHITE HOUSE. AND I'D LIKE TO THANK YOU ALL FOR
JOINING BARBARA AND ME THIS AFTERNOON TO
COMMEMORATE THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOLGER
SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY.
o
BARBARA AND I WISH WE COULD BE WITH YOU TONIGHT AT
THE DIAMOND JUBILEE DINNER. WE WOULD ESPECIALLY
LIKE TO BE ABLE TO JOIN IN OFFERING A BIRTHDAY
TOAST TO YOUR PATRON -- WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE.
- 2 -
o
I BELIEVE EVERYONE GATHERED IN THIS ROOM REALIZES
HOW VERY IMPORTANT LITERACY IS, AND THAT BARBARA IS
AN OUTSTANDING CHAMPION FOR THIS CAUSE. THE FOLGER
LIBRARY IS A SUPERB EXAMPLE OF WHAT BARBARA IS
WORKING so HARD TO ACHIEVE.
o
THE FOLGER'S APPROACH TO TEACHING SHAKESPEARE HAS
GAINED NATIONAL RECOGNITION AND IT'S ACKNOWLEDGED
AS ONE OF THE MOST PROMISING PROGRAMS TO IMPROVE
THE EDUCATION OF ALL STUDENTS, AND PARTICULARLY OF
THE EDUCATIONALLY DISADVANTAGED.
- 3 -
o
THE REACTION OF CHILDREN TO THE ACTORS AND THE
EMINENT SCHOLARS WORKING WITH THEM, IS JUST
TERRIFIC! To SEE CHILDREN -- INCLUDING THE GIFTED
AND SLOW LEARNERS -- RECITING SHAKESPEARE IS A VERY
HEARTWARMING SCENE.
o
AND ALLOW ME TO POINT OUT A RECENT DISCOVERY IN THE
TALENT ARENA. A YOUNG MAN DESTINED TO BE THE NEXT
LAWRENCE OLIVIER - -- ERIC HALE.
- 4 -
ERIC, CONGRATULATIONS ON RECENTLY BEING NAMED THE
BEST YOUNG SHAKESPEAREAN ACTOR IN WASHINGTON. HE'S
HERE FRESH FROM HIS PERFORMANCE AT LINCOLN CENTER.
o
ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING. WE WISH YOU
CONTINUED SUCCESS FOR AT LEAST ANOTHER 60 YEARS.
Now, BARBARA AND I LOOK FORWARD TO GREETING
EVERYONE IN THE RECEIVING LINE.
# # #
60TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOLGER'S SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY
STATE DINING ROOM \ THURS. APRIL 23, 1992 \ 5:30 P.M.
o
LET ME BEGIN BY WELCOMING HER ROYAL HIGHNESS,
PRINCESS ALEXANDRA AND SIR ANGUS OGILVY To THE
WHITE HOUSE. AND I'D LIKE TO THANK YOU ALL FOR
JOINING BARBARA AND ME THIS AFTERNOON TO
COMMEMORATE THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOLGER
SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY.
o
BARBARA AND I WISH WE COULD BE WITH YOU TONIGHT AT
THE DIAMOND JUBILEE DINNER. WE WOULD ESPECIALLY
LIKE TO BE ABLE TO JOIN IN OFFERING A BIRTHDAY
TOAST TO YOUR PATRON -- WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE.
- 2 -
o
I BELIEVE EVERYONE GATHERED IN THIS ROOM REALIZES
HOW VERY IMPORTANT LITERACY IS, AND THAT BARBARA IS
AN OUTSTANDING CHAMPION FOR THIS CAUSE. THE FOLGER
LIBRARY IS A SUPERB EXAMPLE OF WHAT BARBARA IS
WORKING so HARD TO ACHIEVE.
o
THE FOLGER'S APPROACH TO TEACHING SHAKESPEARE HAS
GAINED NATIONAL RECOGNITION AND IT'S ACKNOWLEDGED
AS ONE OF THE MOST PROMISING PROGRAMS TO IMPROVE
THE EDUCATION OF ALL STUDENTS, AND PARTICULARLY OF
THE EDUCATIONALLY DISADVANTAGED.
- 3 -
0 THE REACTION OF CHILDREN TO THE ACTORS AND THE
EMINENT SCHOLARS WORKING WITH THEM, IS JUST
TERRIFIC! To SEE CHILDREN -- INCLUDING THE GIFTED
AND SLOW LEARNERS -- RECITING SHAKESPEARE IS A VERY
HEARTWARMING SCENE.
0
AND ALLOW ME TO POINT OUT A RECENT DISCOVERY IN THE
TALENT ARENA. A YOUNG MAN DESTINED To BE THE NEXT
LAWRENCE OLIVIER - -- ERIC HALE.
- 4 -
ERIC, CONGRATULATIONS ON RECENTLY BEING NAMED THE
BEST YOUNG SHAKESPEAREAN ACTOR IN WASHINGTON. HE'S
HERE FRESH FROM HIS PERFORMANCE AT LINCOLN CENTER.
o
ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING. WE WISH YOU
CONTINUED SUCCESS FOR AT LEAST ANOTHER 60 YEARS.
Now, BARBARA AND I LOOK FORWARD TO GREETING
EVERYONE IN THE RECEIVING LINE.
# # #
60TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOLGER'S SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY
STATE DINING ROOM \ THURS. APRIL 23, 1992 \ 5:30 P.M.
0
FIRST, I'D LIKE TO THANK YOU ALL FOR JOINING
BARBARA AND I THIS AFTERNOON TO COMMEMORATE THE
60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOLGER SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY.
0
BARBARA AND I WISH WE COULD BE WITH YOU TONIGHT AT
THE DIAMOND JUBILEE DINNER. WE WOULD ESPECIALLY
LIKE TO BE ABLE TO JOIN IN OFFERING A BIRTHDAY
TOAST TO YOUR PATRON -- WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE.
- 2 -
o
I BELIEVE EVERYONE GATHERED IN THIS ROOM REALIZES
HOW VERY IMPORTANT LITERACY IS, AND THAT BARBARA IS
AN OUTSTANDING CHAMPION FOR THIS CAUSE. THE FOLGER
LIBRARY IS A SUPERB EXAMPLE OF WHAT BARBARA IS
WORKING so HARD TO ACHIEVE.
0
THE FOLGER'S APPROACH TO TEACHING SHAKESPEARE HAS
GAINED NATIONAL RECOGNITION AND IT'S ACKNOWLEDGED
AS ONE OF THE MOST PROMISING PROGRAMS TO IMPROVE
THE EDUCATION OF ALL STUDENTS, AND PARTICULARLY OF
THE EDUCATIONALLY DISADVANTAGED.
- 3 -
0
THE REACTION OF CHILDREN TO THE ACTORS AND THE
EMINENT SCHOLARS WORKING WITH THEM, IS JUST
TERRIFIC! Too SEE CHILDREN -- INCLUDING THE GIFTED
AND SLOW LEARNERS -- RECITING SHAKESPEARE IS A VERY
HEARTWARMING SCENE.
0
AND ALLOW ME TO POINT OUT A RECENT DISCOVERY IN THE
TALENT ARENA. A YOUNG MAN DESTINED TO BE THE NEXT
LAWRENCE OLIVIER -- ERIC HALE.
60TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOLGER'S SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY
STATE DINING ROOM \ THURS. APRIL 23, 1992 \ 5:30 P.M.
0
FIRST, I'D LIKE TO THANK YOU ALL FOR JOINING
BARBARA AND I THIS AFTERNOON TO COMMEMORATE THE
60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOLGER SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY.
o
BARBARA AND I WISH WE COULD BE WITH YOU TONIGHT AT
THE DIAMOND JUBILEE DINNER WOULD ESPECIALLY
LIKE TO BE ABLE TO JOIN IN OFFERING A BIRTHDAY
TOAST TO YOUR PATRON -- WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE.
- 2 -
0
I BELIEVE EVERY ONE GATHERED IN THIS ROOM REALIZES
HOW VERY IMPORTANT LITERACY IS, AND THAT BARBARA IS
AN OUTSTANDING CHAMPION FOR THIS CAUSE. THE FOLGER
LIBRARY IS A SUPERB EXAMPLE OF WHAT BARBARA IS
WORKING SO HARD TO ACHIEVE.
0
THE FOLGER'S APPROACH To TEACHING SHAKESPEARE HAS
GAINED NATIONAL RECOGNITION AND
ITS
ACKNOWLEDGED AS
ONE OF THE MOST PROMISING PROGRAMS TO IMPROVE THE
- 3 -
EDUCATION OF ALL STUDENTS, AND PARTICULARLY OF THE
EDUCATIONALLY DISADVANTAGED.
what
0
THE REACTION OF CHILDREN TO THE ACTORS AND THE
we've seen here
EMINENT SCHOLARS WORKING WITH THEM, IS JUST
TERRIFIC! Too SEE CHILDREN -- INCLUDING THE GIFTED
today--
AND SLOW LEARNERS -- RECITING SHAKESPEARE IS A VERY
HEARTWARMING SCENE.
0
AND ALLOW ME TO POINT OUT A RECENT DISCOVERY IN THE
TALENT ARENA. A YOUNG MAN DESTINED TO BE THE NEXT
- 4 -
LAWRENCE OLIVIER - -- ERIC HALE. ERIC,
CONGRATULATIONS ON RECENTLY BEING NAMED THE BEST
YOUNG SHAKESPEAREAN ACTOR IN WASHINGTON. EVEN MORE
He
here
Frosh
THE
EACT
THAT
THIS
YOUNG
MAN
PERFORME ance AT THE LINCOLN CENTER EARLY THIS WEEK.
0
ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING. AND WE WISH
YOU CONTINUED SUCCESS FOR AT LEAST ANOTHER 60
YEARS.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
DATE: APRIL 6, 1992
PLEASE DELIVER THE FOLLOWING PAGES TO:
SPEECHWRITING (CHRISTINA MARTIN)
NAME:
ORGANIZATION:
C57
FROM:
CATHY FENTON, SOCIAL OFFICE
PHONE:
X7064
TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES
7
INCLUDING COVER LETTER.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
CHRISTINA:
I'M SENDING OVER INFORMATION FROM THE FOLGER SHAKESPEARE
LIBRARY WHICH MIGHT BE HELPFUL IN PREPARING REMARKS FOR
THE PRESIDENT TO MAKE AT THE APRIL 23 RECEPTION HERE. (EAST
ROOM 5:30 P.M.) THERE IS A DINNER FOLLOWING OUR RECEPTION AT
THE LIBRARY BUT THE PRESIDENT & MRS. BUSH WILL NOT BE
ATTENDING THAT. I'M NOT SURE ABOUT THE SCENARIO YET AND WHETHER
THE YOUNG MAN THEY HAVE SUGGESTED, ERIC HALE, WILL BE READING
ANY LINES FROM SHAKESPEARE. ANYWAY, THIS SHOULD HELP YOU GET
STARTED. MANY THANKS. WE'LL TALK TO YOU ONCE WE RECEIVE
YOUR DRAFT.
IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE ALL PAGES, PLEASE CALL BACK AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
TO (202) 456-7788.
RETURN TELECOPY NUMBER:
202/456-6235
NOTE:THE PRESIDENT AND MRS. BUSH ARE HONORARY PATRONS OF THE
60TH ANNIVERSARY DIAMOND JUBILEE DINNER OF THE FOLGER
SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY. HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, PRINCESS ALEXANDRA
AND SIR ANGUS OGIEVY WILL ALSO BE AT THE RECEPTION AND WILL
ATTEND THE DINNER AFTERWARDS.
in
L 204566218:84
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THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
DATE: APRIL 6, 1992
PLEASE DELIVER THE FOLLOWING PAGES TO:
SPEECHWRITING (CHRISTINA MARTIN)
NAME:
ORGANIZATION:
037
FROM:
CATHY FENTON, SOCIAL OFFICE
PHONE:
X7064
TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES
7
INCLUDING COVER LETTER.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
CHRISTINA:
I'M SENDING OVER INFORMATION FROM THE FOLGER SHAKESPEARE
LIBRARY WHICH MIGHT BE HELPFUL IN PREPARING REMARKS FOR
THE PRESIDENT TO MAKE AT THE APRIL 23 RECEPTION HERE. (EAST
ROOM 5:30 P.M.) THERE IS A DINNER, FOLLOWING OUR RECEPTION AT
THE LIBRARY BUT THE PRESIDENT & MRS. BUSH WILL NOT BE
ATTENDING THAT. I'M NOT SURE ABOUT THE SCENARIO YET AND WHETHER
THE YOUNG MAN THEY HAVE SUGGESTED, ERIC HALE, WILL BE READING
ANY LINES FROM SHAKESPEARE. ANYWAY, THIS SHOULD HELP YOU GET
STARTED. MANY THANKS. WE'LL TALK TO YOU ONCE WE RECEIVE
YOUR DRAFT.
IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE ALL PAGES, PLEASE CALL BACK AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
TO (202) 456-7788.
RETURN TELECOPY NUMBER: 202/456-6235
NOTE: THE PRESIDENT AND MRS. BUSH ARE HONORARY PATRONS OF THE
60TH ANNIVERSARY DIAMOND JUBILEE DINNER OF THE FOLGER
SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY. HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, PRINCESS ALEXANDRA
AND SIR ANGUS OGILVY WILL ALSO BE AT THE RECEPTION AND WILL
ATTEND THE DINNER AFTERWARDS.
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THE SHAKESPLANE LIBRARY
THE FOLGER SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY
dministered by the Trustees of Amherst College
March 24, 1992
Mrs. Bush
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
bear Barbara:
The Folger Shakespeare Library's Diamond Jubiles Dinner is almost
here, and I thought I had better check in with you and your office in
case there are any last minute details we need to consider. As you
know it will take place Thursday, April 23rd, which is not only the
Folger's 60th birthday, but Shakespeare's birthday as well. The
reception hosted by you and The President will, of course, be the
highlight of the day for everyone.
I assume that during the reception the President will want to say a
fow words of greating. and we have been asked to supply some background
information to Cathy Fenton. We are hoping that Dr. Werner
Gundersheimer, Director of the Library. will have the opportunity to
thank you in reply. We would also like to make a brief presentation to
you and The President, as well as to H.R.H. Princess Alexandra. To
focus a bit on the Folger's very important outreach program to schools,
we would like to propose that Erio Hale, a student brought up with every
disadvantage, and whose life was transformed by Shakespeare, recite a
few appropriate lines from the plays, perhaps ten lines, no more, as the
presentations are being made. I think it would be the thrill of his
life if he could have this small moment in the sun. Attached is some
background information about Eric and about the Folger's Education
Program.
(Incidentally, Erie is, as you will seen, an exceptional young men.
when I asked him how he was introduced to Shakespeare, he told me he
simply picked up "Julius Caeser one day and began to read. He said, "No
one told me I wasn't supposed to like it.")
I am looking forward so much to April 23rd, and to seeing you and
the President again. I know what a busy time this is for you, and
appreciate more than I can tell you this generous gesture on your part.
Lucky Much love,
B. Roosevelt, Jr.
Chairman
The Folger Shakespeare Library
Diamond Jubilee Dinner
ABR/mp
enc.
Worner Condersheimer, Director, 201 East Capitol Street, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20003 (202) $44-4600
2
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THE FOLGER LIBRARY EDUCATION PROGRAM
Since the early 1980's this program for elementary and secondary school students has been
growing rapidly, thanks to the leadership of the Folger's gifted and dynamic Education
Director. The programs affecting the greatest number of students and having the widest
Influence are the yearly student Shakespeare Festivals, which now involve more than 2000
students a year, from age 9 to 18.
The Folger's approach to teaching Shakespeare has gained national recognition and is
acknowledged as one of the most promising programs to improve the education of all students,
and particularly of the educationally disadvantaged. The reaction of children to the actors and
eminent scholars working with them, is just terrific! To see children . including the gifted and
slow learners - reciting Shakespeare is a very heartwarming scene,
The basic premise is that students learn a great deal about Shakespeare from preparing a
performance that they can't learn from reading and discussing a play, valuable as that may be.
Through performance they begin to understand that Shakespeare's language is not necessarily a
barrier to understanding the plays, but one of their glories. Children who are exposed to his
work have fun, become inspired, and LEARN.
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Transcription of Washington Post article by Courtland Malloy
A NEW HOME IN D.C., A NEW LIFE ON THE STAGE
As A boy growing up in the poor farm town of Turrell, Arkansas, Eric Hale was taunted by
playmates because he was quiet, shy and moody. The son of a teenage mother who had no idea
how to help her boy handle such problems, Eric tried to escape conflict by spending lonely
hours reading Shakespeare.
Two years ago, at age 16, Eric's confrontations with other youths became so terrifying that
his mother sent him to Washington to live with relatives. This is a city with the highest
homicide Fate in the United States, so residents of Turrell (population 1,200) couldn't help but
wonder whether young Hale had jumped from the frying pan into the fire.
Imagine their surprise, then, when his hometown newspaper ran a feature story not long
ago about how Eric had been named the best young Shakespearean actor in Washington and
how, on April 21, he took center stage at Lincoln Center in New York as one of nine finalists
in the English Speaking Union Competition.
That is one of the country's most prestigious Shakespeare acting contests. The year, it
started out with 6,200 contestants from the best high schools in America,
"I was surprised, said Fay Vaughn-Cooke, the aunt with whom Eric lives in Northwest
Washington. "I grew up in Turrell. There was nothing in that Arkansas environment to
support his interest in Shakespeare. They don't do Shakespeare. There are no theaters, no
plays."
But there was a softback copy of the play "Julius Caesar" that Eric discovered when he was
in 10th grade. In it, characters were dealing with some of the same problems he had.
"At that point in my life, I could really relate to Brutus," Eric recalled. "He was a bitter
character end 1 was angry. Reading his long speeches allowed me to vent my frustrations."
Richard III became his favorite. "I was not popular. People made fun of the way I
looked. Eric said. "Then I came across this insecure guy who is dealing with deformity. He
couldn't find any beauty in himself, therefore he couldn't find it anywhere else."
In Harniet, he found a prince whose relationship with his mother was strained. Eric could
relate to that too.
"Shakespeare made me notice the problems I was having and allowed me to say, 'Hey, this
character is a lot like me." he said. "Knowing you are not unique can be a big relief."
Brio was enrolled in the District's School Without Walls and eventually sought out Joan
Pierotti, the school's Shakespeare acting coach.
"I was astonished at how self-directed he was, and how there was so little I could do for
him except work with his articulation," Pierotti said. "He is virtually self-taught, and he knows
more about Shakespeare than I do. I've never had a kid like this before, and I've been teaching
for more than 20 years."
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Inevitably, questions were raised by some classmates about why a black boy form Arkansas
was so interested in Shakespeare. Douglas Johnson, the esteemed black Shakespearean actor
who was a visiting artist at the School Without Walls, helped Eric answer them by casting him
in his first acting role as Othello.
While coaching Eric, Johnson explained that many of Shakespeare's works were based on
Greek tragedies whose themes are derived from African legends.
Fortified with stories about Paul Robeson's triumphs as a Shakespearean actor, Eric entered
the English Speaking Union's local competition, held at the Shakespeare Theatre at the Folger
last March. Eleven schools - including St. Albans, Georgetown Day, Cathedral and the Duke
Ellington School for the Arts -- sent their best actors.
Eric blew them away.
In New York, Eric missed taking first place by one vote, according to Moses Gunn, an
actor who served on a panel of judges for the competition. But that was all right, because he
was still a winner.
This week, Eric graduates from the School Without Walls. He has been accepted at
Howard University, where he begins as a theater major this fall. His uncle, Denys
Vaughn-Cooke, says Eric's accomplishments show that a little intervention in the life of a
troubled youth goes a long way.
"All he needed was the opportunity to chart a new course for himself," Vaughn-Cooke said.
As Eric sees it, all young people need help in working through the inner turmoil of their
adolescent years. For him, that meant a loving family with open arms that spread from
Arkansas to Washington, a supportive school that let him be himself and a man called
Shakespeare to show that human beings are truly more alike than different.
By Courtland Malloy
Washington Post
June 2. 1991
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Apr. 22 / Administration of Ronald Reagan, 1988
Folger Shakespeare Library
Remarks at # Reception Commemorating
the 50th Anniversary of the Library.
April 22, 1982
Thank you, Jane and Di. Hardison and
changing exhibits of the library and the BX-
friends of the Folger. I don't know, you've
cellence of Folger Theatre productions
brought back a little nostalgia. I could date
serve not only Washingtonians but the thou-
myself completely and tell you that once in
sands of our countrymen who visit here
college I played in "Taming of the Shrew"
every year.
done in modern costume, and my wardrobe
Your decision to take exhibits on tour
was plus-four knickers. (Laughter) I also,
around the country, however. represents
however, think that if anyone had been re-
perhaps your finest undertaking. As your
viewing plays at that time in that college, I
collection moves from one of our cities to
might have gotten something like the line
the next, millions more will be able to share
that was once given about an actor who
at Arsthand this wealth that is their hert-
played King Lear and said he played 16 as if
tage.
someone else had played the ace. [Laugh-
It's been said that a true classic eririches
ter)
the human mind, augments its treasures.
But It's A real pleasure for Nancy and me
and pushes mankind forward another step.
to take part with you in this celebration of
Think of the riches bound in the volume
Folger Library's 50th or golden anniversary.
upon volume of classics in your charge.
I value my membership in the Order of the
Someone once pointed out to me that all
Folger as a great honor.
the complexities and the troubles of the
In the "Merchant of Venice," Shake-
world-and yet there at hand. simply by
speare wrote of a small caridle and of how
far it throws its beams. And as we look
opening the covers of books, we could find
shout us in this troubled world, with its
from the past the answers to every one of
tensions and complexities, B collection of lif-
the problems that beset us, if we would
erature and art-however rare and great-
only turn to them and heed those words.
may seem # very small candle indeed. But
Imagine the fortune in ideas those books
Access to the masterpieces of our language
hold and the progress we can measure by
opens a door to the great minds that gave
understanding them. The energy in your
them birth.
one little candle has the power to light the
This light that you sustain throws Its
world.
beams across our land, adding to the per.
I'm grateful for the honors that you have
spective, understanding, and character of
given me this afternoon and wish you con-
our people. All Americans can be proud
tinued success in bringing another 50 years
that the finest collection of Shakespeare's
of insight and enlightenment to our people.
work is on this side of the Atlantic. It be-
And, Jane, even if it isn't pure gold-(refer-
longs to mankind, but it's possessed and
ring to the key to she library)-if it was,
cared for by 4251 through the Folger Library.
Dave Stockman would have gotten it by
Henry and Emily Folger's bift of 80 years
now--{laughter}-this ensures that I can
ago is today 8 priceless treasure which must
keep it. and I thank you all very much.
be preserved and enlarged, as the inheri-
Thank you.
tence of Americans, in generations to come.
You've worked hard and contributed
Note: The President spoke at 5:30 p.m. in
much so that the Folger may maintain its
the East Room at the White House Prior to
high standards despite growing financial
his remarks, the President was inducted
pressures, and for that the country thanks
into the Order of the Folges by Jane Weln-
you. But just as important has been your
berger, chairman of the Folger trustees, and
dedication to sharing the Folger treasures
Dr. O. B. Hardison, Jr., director of the LI.
with all of our people-the constantly
brary. As Dr. Hardison read a scroll, Mrs.
Weinberger presented the President with a
key to the Library and a medal in recogni-
tion of the President's contributions to the
arts and culture of America.
9 2045662181
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THE THE SHAKESPEA
THE FOLGER SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY
Administered by the Trustees of Amherst College
March 24, 1992
Mrs. Bush
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Barbara:
The Folger Shakespeare Library's Diamond Jubilee Dinner is almost
here, and I thought I had better check in with you and your office in
case there are any last minute details we need to consider. As you
know it will take place Thursday, April 23rd, which is not only the
Folger's 60th birthday, but Shakespeare's birthday as well. The
reception hosted by you and The President will, of course, be the
highlight of the day for everyone.
I assume that during the reception the President will want to sav a
saw words of greeting. and we have been asked to supply some background
information to Cathy Fenton. We are hoping that Dr. Werner
Gundersheimer, Director of the Library will have the opportunity to
thank you in reply. We would also like to make a brief presentation to
you and The President, as well as to H.R.H. Princess Alexandra. To
focus a bit on the Folger's very important outreach program to schools,
we would like to propose that Eric Hale, a student brought up with every
disadvantage, and whose life was transformed by Shakespeare, recite a
few appropriate lines from the plays, perhaps ten lines, no more, as the
presentations are being made. I think it would be the thrill of his
life if he could have this small moment in the sun. Attached is some
background information about Eric and about the Folger's Education
Program.
(Incidentally, Erie 10, as you will seen, on exceptional young man.
When I asked him how he was introduced to Shakespeare, he told me he
simply picked up "Julius Caeser one day and began to read. He said, "No
one told me I wasn't supposed to like it.")
I am looking forward so much to April 23rd, and to seeing you and
the President again. I know what & busy time this is for you, and
appreciate more than I can tell you this generous gesture on your part.
Lucky Much love,
B. Roosevelt, Jr.
Chairman
The Folger Shakespeare Library
Diamond Jubilee Dinner
ABR/mp
she.
Werner Gundersheimer, Director, 201 East Capitol Street, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20003 (202) 544-4600
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Transcription of Washington Post article by Courtland Malloy
A NEW HOME IN D.C., A NEW LIFE ON THE STAGE
As a boy growing up in the poor farm town of Turrell, Arkansas, Eric Hale was taunted by
playmates because he was quiet, shy and moody. The son of a teenage mother who had no idea
how to help her boy handle such problems, Eric tried to escape conflict by spending lonely
hours reading Shakespeare,
Two years ago, at age 16, Eric's confrontations with other youths became so terrifying that
his mother sent him to Washington to live with relatives. This is a city with the highest
homicide fate in the United States so residents of Turrell (population 1,200) couldn't help but
wonder whether young Hale had jumped from the frying pan into the fire.
Imagine their surprise, then, when his hometown newspaper ran a feature story not long
ago about how Eric had been named the best young Shakespearean actor in Washington and
how, on April 21, he took center stage at Lincoln Center in New York as one of nine finalists
in the English Speaking Union Competition.
That is one of the country's most prestigious Shakespeare acting contests. The year, it
started out with 6,200 contestants from the best high schools in America,
"I was surprised," said Fay Vaughn-Cooke, the aunt with whom Eric lives in Northwest
Washington "I grew up in Turrell. There was nothing in that Arkansas environment to
support his interest in Shakespeare. They don't do Shakespeare. There are no theaters, no
plays."
But there was a softback copy of the play "Julius Caesar" that Eric discovered when he was
in 10th grade. In it, characters were dealing with some of the same problems he had.
"Ar that point in my life, I could really relate to Brutus," Eric recalled. "He was a bitter
character and I was angry. Reading his long speeches allowed me to vent my frustrations."
Richard III became his favorite. "I was not popular. People made fun of the way I
looked, Eric said. "Then I came across this insecure guy who is dealing with deformity. He
couldn't find any beauty in himself, therefore he couldn't find it anywhere else."
In Hamlet, he found a prince whose relationship with his mother was strained. Eric could
relate to that too.
"Shakespeare made me notice the problems I was having and allowed me to say, 'Hey, this
character is a lot like me." he said. "Knowing you are not unique can be a big relief."
Eric was enrolled in the District's School Without Walls and eventually sought out Joan
Pierotti, the school's Shakespeare acting coach.
"I was astonished at how self-directed he was, and how there was so little I could do for
him except work with his articulation," Pierotti said. "He is virtually self-taught, and he knows
more about Shakespeare than I do. I've never had a kid like this before, and I've been teaching
for more than 20 years."
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THE FOLGER LIBRARY EDUCATION PROGRAM
Since the early 1980's this program for elementary and secondary school students has been
growing rapidly, thanks to the leadership of the Folger's gifted and dynamic Education
Director. The programs affecting the greatest number of students and having the widest
influence are the yearly student Shakespeare Festivals, which now involve more than 2000
students a year, from age 9 to 18.
The Folger's approach to teaching Shakespeare has gained national recognition and is
acknowledged as one of the most promising programs to improve the education of all students,
and particularly of the educationally disadvantaged. The reaction of children to the actors and
eminent scholars working with them, is just terrific! To see children - including the gifted and
slow learners - reciting Shakespeare is a very heartwarming scene.
The basic premise is that students learn a great deal about Shakespeare from preparing a
performance that they can't learn from reading and discussing a play, valuable as that may be.
Through performance they begin to understand that Shakespeare's language is not necessarily a
barrier to understanding the plays, but one of their glories. Children who are exposed to his
work have fun, become inspired, and LEARN.
E
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Inevitably, questions were raised by some classmates about why a black boy form Arkansas
was so interested in Shakespeare. Douglas Johnson, the esteemed black Shakespearean actor
who was a visiting artist at the School Without Walls, helped Eric answer them by casting him
in his first acting role as Othello,
While coaching Eric, Johnson explained that many of Shakespeare's works were based on
Greek tragedies whose themes are derived from African legends.
Fortified with stories about Paul Robeson's triumphs as a Shakespearean actor, Eric entered
the English Speaking Union's local competition, held at the Shakespeare Theatre at the Folger
last March. Eleven schools - including St. Albans, Georgetown Day, Cathedral and the Duke
Ellington School for the Arts - sent their best actors.
Eric blew them away.
In New York, Eric missed taking first place by one vote, according to Moses Gunn, an
actor who served on a panel of judges for the competition. But that was all right, because he
was still a winner.
This week, Bric graduates from the School Without Walls. He has been accepted at
Howard University, where he begins as a theater major this fall. His uncle, Denys
Vaughn-Cooks, says Eric's accomplishments show that a little intervention in the life of a
troubled youth goes a long way.
"All he needed was the opportunity to chart a new course for himself," Vaughn-Cooke said.
As Eric sees it, all young people need help in working through the inner turmoil of their
adolescent years. For him, that meant a loving family with open arms that spread from
Arkansas to Washington, a supportive school that let him be himself and a man called
Shakespeare to show that human beings are truly more alike than different.
By Courtland Malloy
Washington Post
June 2, 1991
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Apr. 22 / Administration of Ronald Rragan, 1962
Folger Shakespeare Library
Remarks at " Reception Commemorating
the 50th Anniversary of the Library.
April 22, 1982
Thank you, Jane and Dr. Hardison and
changing exhibits of the library and the ex-
friends of the Folger. I don't know; you've
cellence of Folger Theatre productions
brought back a little nostalgia. I could date
serve not only Washingtonians but the thou-
myself completely and tell you that once in
sands of our countrymen who visit here
college 1 played in "Taming of the Shrew"
every year.
done in modern costume, and my wardrobe
Your decision to take exhibits on tour
was plus-four knickers. [Loughter] I also,
around the country, however. represents
however, think that if anyone had been re-
perhaps your finest undertaking. As your
viewing plays at that time in that college, I
collection moves from one of our cities to
might have gotten something like the line
the next, millions more will be able to share
that was once given about an actor who
at firsthand this wealth that is their heri-
played King Lear and said he played It as if
tage.
someone else had played the ace. [Laugh-
It's been said that B true classic eririches
her)
the human mind, sugments its treasures,
But It's a real pleasure for Nancy and me
and pushes mankind forward another step.
to take part with you in this celebration of
Think of the riches bound in the volume
Folger Library's 50th or golden anniversary.
1 value my membership in the Order of the
upon volume of classics in your charge.
Folger as a great honor.
Someone once pointed out to me that all
in the "Merchant of Venice," Shake-
the complexities and the troubles of the
speare wrote of A small caridle and of how
world-and yet there at hand, simply by
far it throws its beams. And as we look
opening the covers of books, we could find
about us in this troubled world, with its
from the past the answers to every one of
tensions and complexities, a collection of lit-
the problems that beset us, if we would
erature and art-however rare and great--
only turn to them and heed those words.
may seem a very small candle indeed. But
Imagine the fortune in ideas those books
Access to the masterpleces of our language
hold and the progress we can measure by
opons & door to the great minds that gave
understanding them. The energy in your
them birth.
one little candle has the power to light the
This Hght that you sustain throws its
world.
bearns across our land, adding to the per-
I'm grateful for the honors that you have
spective, understanding, and character of
given me this afternoon and wish you con-
our people. All Americans can be proud
tinued success in bringing another 50 years
that the finest collection of Shakespeare's
of insight and enlightenment to our people.
work is on this side of the Atlantic. It be-
And, Jane, even if It isn't pure gold-(refer-
longs to mankind, but it's possessed and
ring to the key to she library)-if it was,
cared for by us, through the Folger Library.
Dave Stockman would have gotten It by
Henry and Emily Folger's gift of 50 years
now-{laughter}-this ensures that 1 can
ago is today B priceless treasure which must
keep it, and I thank you all very much.
be preserved and enlarged, as the inheri-
Thank you.
lance of Americans, in generations to come.
You've worked hard and contributed
Note: The President spoke at 5:30 p.m. in
much to that the Folger may maintain its
the East Room at the White House. Prior to
high standards despite growing financial
his remarks, the President was inducted
pressures, and for that the country thanks
into the Order of the Folger by Jone Wein-
you. But just 82 important has been your
dedication to sharing the Folger treasures
berger, chairman of the Folger trustees, and
with all of our people-the constantly
Dr. O. B. Hardison, Jr., director of the Li-
brary. As Dr. Hardison read a scroll, Mrs.
Weinberger presented the President with a
key to the Library and 4 medal in recognt-
tion of the President's contributions to the
ares and culture of America.
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THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 22, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAVID DEMAREST
SPEECHWRITERS
RESEARCHERS
FROM:
MICHELE NIX
SUBJECT:
PREADVANCE TRIP
Here's the poopski on the events scheduled for the Columbus trip
and Miami/Charlotte:
Bluffsview Elementary School. To commemorate Arnold
Schwarzenegger's 50th stop on a 50-state tour, POTUS is
going to stop off at Bluffsview Elementary School at
approximately 2:00 p.m. (times are not finalized). He will
go into a 10-minute briefing with leaders on the issue of
physical fitness, then proceed to a room where 24 kids (5th
graders probably) will be divided into teams and set up in
stations where they'll be doing exercises to music. The
stations are: curl ups, shuttle run, push ups, jump rope,
stretching, juggling scarves. When the music stops, they
change stations. POTUS (having already changed into a warm-
up suit after the briefing) will interact with the kids
along with Arnold. Then POTUS goes into a gymnasium and
delivers brief remarks to approximately 500-600 people
(kids, parents, teachers, some community leaders).
Principal Donna Kelly will intro the Governor; the Gov. will
intro POTUS. At the conclusion of the remarks, the kids
will all stand and sing "God Bless the USA" to POTUS. After
POTUS leaves, Arnold might go down into the audience and
play "Arnold Says" with the kids.
Bluffsview only opened this past September. It's brand
spanking new. It's also situated in the Worthington School
District in Franklin County. (The area seemed quite nice -
- a little too nice, somewhat uppercrust.) I talked to the
assistant to the Superintendent, John Butterfield, and asked
him for some info about the area, the school, etc.
(Researcher, his name and number are on the contact sheet.)
Some tidbits to note: The district adopted America 2000
about 2 months ago -- so the enthusiasm is still high.
School colors: blue and white. The kids will probably make
banners for the backdrop where POTUS speaks; they might say
something like "Bluffsview Bears are physically fit."
(Researcher see me for more color details.)
Ohio Association of Broadcasters. This event will be held
at the Hyatt on Capitol Square in the Governors Ballroom.
The expected audience is 200-250 people, all members of OAB.
The attendees will eat lunch around 1:30 or 2:00 p.m. and
then leave for an hour's intermission. They'll come back at
3:00 p.m.; POTUS will be introduced at 3:15 p.m. I asked
the Executive Vice President, Dale Bring, to fax us certain
info -- which I hear he did yesterday. He's probably the
best contact for this event. OAB President Gary Robinson
will intro POTUS. (Robinson is General Manager of an NBC
affiliate in Cincinnati.)
Some tidbits: Columbus is headquarters to several
insurance companies and also to Borden. Borden is just
several blocks down the street from the Hyatt. POTUS has
addressed this group twice before -- once as Vice President.
A beautiful church is across the street. This is the OAB's
annual meeting -- in which they will be discussing the
economy as it impacts their industry.
Bush-Quayle Fundraising Dinner in Columbus. This event is
being held at the Ohio State Fairgrounds. It's pretty
standard. POTUS is announced, eats dinner, makes remarks,
exits. Governor Voinovich will intro POTUS. POTUS will be
speaking at the Lausche [LOW-she] Building -- named after a
former Ohio governor (Democrat). Approximately 600 people
are expected at $1,000 a plate. They are community leaders,
business leaders, and some major donors. BQ-Ohio wants the
Pres to attend a reception before the dinner for about 100
couples -- all Asian Indian Americans. Evidently this group
has raised some major bucks for other candidates in the past
-- so they want POTUS to do some schmoozing with them.
POTUS will also go over to a small reception for major
donors. There will also be a possible 100-click photo op
for VIPS before the receptions.
The proposed site for the photo op is in the adjacent
building -- the FFA Center. This is headquarters to Ohio
FFA members -- pretty obvious from the mannequins in FFA
uniforms, the pictures from 20 years ago of FFA members
who've gone on to greatness, etc. Some of it may be left
exposed -- rather than piped and draped. The Pickerington
High School Band will play "Hail to the Chief" -- and then
leave. There may not be a head table (check with Craid Ray
to see what's been decided).
Florida International University. This will be a great
event -- bar any protestors. The Miami Beach Convention
Center is the site -- perfectly Miamiesque in pale blues and
pinks and decorated in leftover furniture from "Miami Vice.
POTUS will arrive for a quick briefing (unrelated to event)
He'll then move to a reception with about 100 people
(business and community leaders) and then into the main
arena (being announced at around 2:00 p.m.) POTUS will
receive an honorary doctorate in Public Service and then
deliver his remarks to about 8700 people (graduates,
families, faculty). President Mitch Maidique will intro
POTUS.
(Jeannie -- I've already given you most of the details,
so I won't elaborate again here.) One item to note: The
students are outraged by the Florida budget passed by the
legislature -- in which education funding has been cut. The
governor vetoed it and sent it back. A lot of the kids will
be wearing badges in the shape of dollar signs that say
"Money for Education." The school administrators are very
proud of their success -- and rightfully so. They've
achieved a lot in 20 years. Re themes/issues: When I asked
one administrator what's on the university's mind, he said,
"FIU is the gateway to the South and the gateway to South
America. We realize they're a lot of opportunities in trade
for this country as a whole and for our students graduating
in the coming years. That's something the President could
touch on."
Bush-Quayle Fundraising Dinner in Charlotte, NC. This is my
event so I won't bore myself, but for those interested: The
site we looked at for this event did not work out -- it was
way too small. Also, there was a huge plantation house and
signs that boasted "Plantation Pavilion," "Plantation
Picnic Area,' etc. I could just see a photog snapping a
picture of POTUS standing in front of the Plantation House
surrounded by all these rich people (nice imagery -- not).
Advance is trying to find a hotel ballroom for the event.
POTUS arrives for a photo op, a reception with major donors,
and then is announced at 6:30 p.m.; after dinner POTUS is
intro'd by Governor Martin. Strom Thurmond will probably
speak before Martin. They're trying to get Billy Graham
there to do the invocation -- but no word yet. POTUS will
deliver his remarks (7:10 p.m.) to about 500 people.
B-Q has a videotape by Jesse Helms that they want to
play during the program. I don't think we're going to do
that. (Wheeeew!)
One issue that B-Qites mentioned: they want to hear GB
say what he has planned for the next four years. (I told
them it was a secret. Kidding.)