Skip to main content

CELEBRATED SPEAKERS

"GOD, I HATE SHAKESPEARE": TEACHING SHAKESPEARE IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Lazaridis Hall, Tom Patterson Theatre
Friday, October 2, 2026
10:30 AM to noon
Educated Imagination Week

Inspired by Northrop Frye’s Massey Lecture, “The Educated Imagination,” this series, hosted by producer and broadcaster Garvia Bailey, explores how arts education shapes lifelong learners, fosters critical thinking and nurtures future generations.

The Educated Imagination copyright © 1997 by Northrop Frye. A CBC Massey Lecture.

Permission granted from House of Anansi Press, Toronto. www.houseofanansi.com


"God, I Hate Shakespeare": Teaching Shakespeare in the 21st Century

Why do some students treat learning Shakespeare like eating their vegetables? While widely celebrated, the study of Shakespeare has come under increasing criticism, raising questions about relevance. How can we foster a genuine connection to his work for young people today? Is it time for someone else to be on top? Led by Garvia Bailey, this panel features innovative educators and artists who are reimagining how to teach Shakespeare, including actor and teacher Austin Eckert, York University professor Deanne Williams, and the Stratford Festival's Education Director Lois Adamson.

Support for The Meighen Forum is generously provided by Kelly & Michael Meighen and the T.R. Meighen Family Foundation.

The Educated Imagination copyright © 1997 by Northrop Frye. A CBC Massey Lecture. Permission granted from House of Anansi Press, Toronto. www.houseofanansi.com



FEATURED GUESTS

Event Schedule

Take advantage of various special deals to save on tickets!