The Illinois Shakespeare Festival unveiled a large model of Shakespeare’s second Globe Theatre prior to the July 20 opening performance of Shakespeare in Love.
The model was created by John Malolepsy, a professor of theatre at the University of New Mexico (UNM). Malolepsy created the model for the Albuquerque Public Arts program where it was housed in the Albuquerque public library since 2004. Renovations to the library led to the model needing a new permanent home. The acquisition began in September 2017 with Festival Artistic Director, John C. Stark heading the transfer project. Stark has done much of the re-assembly of the model himself.
“Professor Malolepsy wanted a new home where Shakespeare lovers could enjoy and appreciate it,” said Stark. “I thought it would be a great addition for our Festival patrons, but also of interest for students in the School of Theatre and Dance, English, and History at Illinois State University.
Based on information in C. Walter Hodges’ book Shakespeare’s Second Globe: The Missing Monument, Malolepsy’s model is 12 feet in diameter and 11 feet 4 inches tall. It is made of wood, metal, and plastic and includes several scale figures representing a rehearsal of Hamlet. The original Globe Theatre burned down in 1613 and was reconstructed thereafter.
In addition to his work at the UMN, Malolepsy has served as a lighting and scenic designer across the country throughout his career. His credits include scenic designs for Shakespeare in the Park and the American Stage Company in St. Petersburg, Florida, and lighting designs at the National Theatre of Venezuela-Caracas. He is a Professor Emeritus at UMN.
Patrons attending Shakespeare in Love, starting July 19 and continuing August 11, will be the first to see Malolepsy’s model.
Shakespeare in Love is the third mainstage production of the 2018 Festival and will be performed in the air-conditioned comfort of the Center for the Performing Arts Theatre on the campus of Illinois State University. All performances of Henry V and The Merry Wives of Windsor will take place at the Ewing Theatre, located at the corner of Emerson Street and Towanda Avenue. Pre-show entertainment will take place on the grounds of the Ewing Cultural Center and on the Illinois State University Quad before several performances.
Tickets are available at Illinois State University’s Center for the Performing Arts box office Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. or by calling 309-438-2535 during box office hours. Tickets can also be purchased online by visiting IllinoisShakes.com. Single ticket prices range from $20–$54.
For more information about the Festival, visit IllinoisShakes.com.
