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The Washington Literary Society is R-MC's oldest student organization. |
Randolph-Macon College’s
Washington Literary Society is a joint student-faculty organization that works to promote the arts, especially literature. Founded in 1833, it is the oldest student organization at R-MC.
On November 10, 2010, the Society sponsored a trip to the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia. Twenty-six students, along with
English Professors Jen Cadwallader, Maria Scott and Marisa Cull, traveled to the Center to see a production of
The Taming of the Shrew. The play was performed in the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s original indoor theatre.
“It was a true pleasure to plan this event,” says Cull, who teaches Shakespeare and Renaissance Literature courses at the college. “It’s a perk of my job to have opportunities like this – to get students out of the classroom and into a space where they can see how these old texts are still vibrant and fun. I hope that events like this encourage them to support the arts as they go forward in life.”
Diana D’Amato ’12 was thrilled to see Shakespeare’s words come alive. “The performance was phenomenal,” says D’Amato, an English major. “The theatre was absolutely beautiful, and before the show started, an actor told the audience that there were extra seats available on the stage.” D’Amato and several of her classmates took advantage of the offer and were delighted when the performers interacted with them during the play.
Cassie Morgan ’12 had never been to the Blackfriars Theatre. “The play was fantastic,” says Morgan. “The traditional Shakespearian atmosphere—from the natural lighting, the interaction with the actors, and even the small concession stand on stage during intermission—was so inviting.” Morgan, an English major, enjoys being a member of the Washington Literary Society. “It gives students great opportunities to broaden their literary experiences,” she says. “The variety of activities and events, and the care with which they are planned, always amazes me. I'm glad to participate in such a great organization.”
The Washington Literary Society also sponsors the annual Book Bowl, a face-off between students and faculty that encourages the study and enjoyment of literature. “The Society also plans trips every year—usually involving a performance of some kind – and plans events that help promote the arts to the entire campus, such as inviting renowned speakers to campus,” says Cull. In 2009 the Society sponsored a visit by author Margaret Atwood.
Cull looks forward to the Society’s upcoming plans. “On December 3, we will hold an open mic/poetry slam night, where students, staff and faculty are invited to share original work and read favorite poems of other authors,” she says. “Washington Literary Society activities are a real treat to be a part of, and I hope our membership will continue to grow.”