Public Outreach

Child-friendly Rewrite

The play could be rewritten into a more “school-friendly,” one that would be able to be put on in schools. The level of censuring may change depending on schools and grade levels, but removing the “intimate” scenes and on-stage suicides would allow this play to be performed by high schools. This would help Antony and Cleopatra be a more widely used play with many educational aspects.

Globe Theater Remembrance Performance

On the anniversary of Antony and Cleopatra’s creation, The Globe Theater can put on a performance that is steamed over YouTube or other services to commemorate the play. This will be a way to expand the audience and draw attention to this underrated play.

Anniversary Reading

Every year, people remember the Ides of March and Julius Caesar, so adding an event at public libraries on the anniversary of the Battle of Actium or the death of Cleopatra will draw attention to the play. On this day, public reading or performance can be held to educate people about the play. It can be structured to display its importance by analyzing how this was the turning point for Rome.

Junior Classical League Performance and Lecture

Every year, a convention where high school classics students learn and compete in everything from Roman Private Life to Mythology is hosted by the Junior Classical League. In addition to the toga party, a performance of Antony and Cleopatra by the classics students could be done. In addition to the play, a lecture on the second triumvirate can be done in addition to the other lecture topics provided. It could be added to the overall schedule and curriculum of this national event.

Online Webinar

An online lecture series can be done to provide historical and cultural context to the play. This can include the history of the Caesars, the triumvirates, Egypt, and the Empire, as well as a series about Shakespeare and his inspiration for writing the play. This can be a three-day-long event, each focusing on the history and contributions of each member of the triumvirate.

Female Empowerment Presentation

History of Cleopatra VII and her rise to power, as well as how she was able to make one of the most powerful men in the world her puppet. This will change the typical public view of Cleopatra from a sexual deviant to a sly and cunning pharaoh. It would provide a role model for young girls and show that a woman not only can survive but thrive even in a world of men.