2022 Update: we are still holding virtual readings, though hope to move back to in-person this year!
Check the calendar for more info.
Every month, we hold FREE open readings of the plays, where all are encouraged to join and participate. Curious about our reading’s namesake? See below.
If you have any questions, you can contact Kevin Manley, our Readings Coordinator: kevin AT sdshakespeare.org
Our two current locations are:
San Diego
First Tuesday of the month, happening virtually at 5 pm PT.
Escondido/North County
Third Sunday of the month, happening virtually at 6:30 pm PT.
See the 2022 schedule of readings.
Archive:
Frequently asked questions about the open readings
Q: Do I have to read?
A: You are welcome to show up and just watch. We suspect, however, that it will look like too much fun for you to resist for long. A lot of newcomers don’t want to read initially but when they see how fun it is, they join in! But there is no pressure at all if you just want to watch and we have regular attendees who have never read.
Q: Do I have to bring a book?
A: You don’t need to have the play if you just want to listen, but it can be fun to follow along in a copy even if you are not reading. At readings held at libraries, copies are kindly provided by the library. At other readings, if you do want to read it is recommended that you bring your own copy of the text to be read that night, a Complete Works, or at least a smartphone or tablet so you can find the text online.
Q: Can I act as a specific character or be in a particular scene?
A: That may be possible. Each evening has an assigned director who has planned what scenes to cover. If you are really anxious to act in a specific scene, talk to the director at the start and see what can be arranged. No guarantees, but if the scene is being done that night, it might be possible. All scenes are cast that night right before they are read, so usually, everyone who wants to act has the chance to do at least a small role.
Q: Who can participate?
A: Everyone! They are free and open to the public.
Who was Rupert Essinger?
Rupert was a long-time member of the Society and first Readings Coordinator. He shuffled off his mortal coil in 2019.
Born in Leicestershire, England, Rupert attended Oxford University and went on to study cartography and GIS at Glasgow University and then SUNY Buffalo. He joined Esri (the company behind StoryMaps) in 1985. He directed many readings at the Upstart Crow bookstore and was always a welcome face to returning and new attendees.