Avi Hoffman Hosts a One Night Only Festival of Classics

This Spring, stay tuned for a One night only of Shakespeare, his Contemporaries and theatrical experimentation — the Legacy of Joseph Papp and ‘Shakespeare in the Park’ is explored by Avi Hoffman, who hosts five companies sharing classic literature, theater and impacts on American culture

Actor Avi Hoffman will host a ‘Festival of Classics’ exploring the man, Joseph Papp, who was literally ‘Shakespeare in the Park.’

This production features classical theater — with new twists. Hoffman hosts this special night with five other South Florida companies producing theatrical elements celebrating classical literature, history and culture.

“Shakespeare was a stranger to me. I had no particular interest in him for I was from a different cultural tradition. But I know a good speech when I hear one, it all sounded like music.” These were the words of Joseph Papp as he described his first encounter with Shakespeare. “I was in junior high school and some teacher read from ‘Julius Caesar.’ It was this speech about rousing people to action and loyalty. I loved that speech. ‘You blocks — you stones — you worse than senseless things. Oh, you hard hearts, you cruel men of Rome.’ I identified with the character. He was protesting injustice done to someone that he cared for.” Joseph Papp

Hoffman knew Joe Papp personally and will introduce each ‘scene’ or vignette from productions by South Florida theater companies including:

‘Romeo and Juliet’ Shakespeare’s play from Shakespeare Troupe of South Florida — SToSF

‘Julia + Roselo’ Lope de Vega’s play produced in conjunction with SToSF and Grace Arts FL — GACFL

‘Macbeth’ Shakespeare’s play produced by New City Players