The English-Speaking Union
Denver Branch

The English-Speaking Union has a diverse range of educational programs that are the hallmark of our mission. Our programs highlight the audience we serve—students, educators, English-language learners, immigrants, and members.

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Honoring ESU Denver Branch Patrons

We would like to honor those who have contributed to the success of the ESU Denver Branch. Watch this space to learn more about these remarkable members and patrons!

Click Here to Read about Marion Milton

2026-2027 ESU Denver Calendar

The Denver Branch plans to expand its calendar of events in the new program year. The usual educational outreach programs will be offered, and there will be new member and social events to engage all Branch members. Click on the link to see a larger image of the proposed calendar.

2026-2027 Denver Branch Calendar

In Memoriam – Michael Newman

We are sad to tell you that Denver Branch member Michael Newman passed away in July. Michael was born in London during the Blitz and had dual citizenship in the UK and the US. He worked in the travel industry around the world and was a longtime animal rights’ vegetarian. Michael was elected to the Denver Branch Board of Directors in 2013.

Passionate Denver Schools

A passionate educator, Ben Butler has been the head football coach at Manual High School for 16 years. But when he’s not on the field, you can find him in the auditorium where he directs the school’s theater performances and has helped grow the arts program. Butler brings his passion for both theater and sports, and believes in helping students find their passion by exploring all opportunities. Congratulations to Denver Branch member Ben Butler for this inspirational acknowledgement on Denver Public Schools YouTube!

Watch the YouTube Video Here

2026 Writing Competition Prompt

The ESU Denver Branch announces the 17th Annual Dr. Howard F. Beckley High School Writing Competition. This year’s prompt is: Consider a life-changing moment like 9/11 and discuss how we adapt to a new world order. Click on the link below for a more detailed explanation of the prompt, as well as deadlines, rules and awards.

2026 Writing Competition Prompt

Upcoming Events

ESU Denver at DCPA: The Tempest

October 24 @ 1:30 pm
Denver Center for the Performing Arts
1301 13th Street
Denver, Colorado 80204 United States

Join ESU Denver members for a matinee performance of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest in the …

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Happy Hour: Virginia’s Role: From English Rights to American Constitutions

Virginia's Role
November 4 @ 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Today our ESU Happy Hour takes us on a journey through the pivotal events that shaped America 250 ye…

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Teachers Learning Abroad (TLab) Dinner

November 10 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The University Club of Denver
1673 Sherman Street
Denver, Colorado 80203 United States

Please join ESU Denver Branch members in the Terrace Room at The University Club of Denver on Tuesda…

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Happy Hour: The Surprising History of Santa and Christmas Traditions in America

History of Santa
December 9 @ 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Christmas in America has a much richer and stranger history than the cozy images we know today. T…

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Happy Hour: Murder and the Manor House

January 6, 2027 @ 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

January 6, 2027, 5 PM ET, Sponsored by the ESU Charlottesville, VA Branch Do you love a good mystery…

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In the News

Recent news and events related to the English Speaking Union Denver Branch.

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ESU Educational Programs in Denver

What We Do

Shakespeare Competition

The ESU National Shakespeare Competition is a performance-based program. High school students develop analytical and communication skills by performing Shakespeare at the school, community, and national levels. Since 1983 over 425,000 students have brought the timeless works of Shakespeare to life. 2026 marks the 42nd year the ESU Denver Branch has participated in the National Shakespeare Competition.

English in Action Across America

English in Action Across America allows ESU branch members to help new immigrants improve their English language proficiency. Through weekly online group discussions and one-to-one conversations, volunteers give students the tools needed to build their new lives in the United States. The ESU National office recruits students and gives Branch volunteers access to training, workshops, resources, and ideas for conversations.

Writing Competition

The Dr. Howard F Beckley Writing Competition was created in 2010 by the ESU Denver Branch to give high school students an opportunity to improve their writing skills. Student entries are based on fiction or non-fiction themes that vary each year and entries are judged by teachers, professional writers and volunteers. Winners receive cash prizes.

TLab: Teachers Learning Abroad

Since 1957, the ESU Denver Branch has given scholarships to high school teachers for UK summer study at Oxford, Edinburgh, and Shakespeare’s Globe in London. Scholars return refreshed and reinvigorated with new insights to share with students and colleagues, and they play vital roles coordinating Branch education programs and providing Branch guidance and leadership.

Evelyn Wrench Lecture Series

The ESU Denver Branch hosts many prominent authors and scholars including ESU’s own Evelyn Wrench Lecture Series named after our founder. These renowned British and American speakers present programs on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to, current events, history, language, literature, art, architecture, and travel.

Happy Hour Series

In response to COVID-19, ESU introduced a virtual Happy Hour Program presenting guest speakers from worldwide locations using the Zoom format. Suggested signature cocktails match the theme for attendees to enjoy at home during the presentations. All Happy Hour events are recorded and available on-demand or for download.

ESU National Educational Programs

What We Do

English in Action

English in Action helps newcomers to the U.S. improve their English language skills and build confidence. Students and volunteers meet weekly for one-to-one conversation practice. At the heart of the program is a commitment to cross-cultural exchange. Students gain insight into life in the U.S. Volunteers learn about different cultures and support immigrants, refugees and other newcomers building new lives in this country.

International (UK) Scholarships

The English Speaking Union offers a variety of scholarship programs for students, educators, and lifelong learners.

Middle School Debate

The ESU’s middle and high school debate leagues provide students with the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills through public speaking at debate tournaments in the US throughout the academic year. Students from all over the world also have the opportunity to hone their skills during the International Public Speaking Competition in London.

International Public Speaking Competition

The International Public Speaking Competition brings together outstandingly articulate young people from all over the world for a week of public speaking competition and international cultural exchange with the ESU of the Commonwealth in London. The finalists meet and learn with their peers of different backgrounds and cultures from some 50 countries. Through all its qualifying levels, the program engages more than 40,000 young people globally.
Get in touch with the Denver Branch
Email: denver@esuus.org
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Donate to support the Denver Branch

The ESU Denver Branch is always grateful for kind donations of any amount. The English-Speaking Union of the United States Denver Branch LLC is a 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. All information is kept confidential.

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