Phil Williams, president of the ESU Charlottesville Branch, will speak on the topic of, “Why Turkey Fascinates and Challenges All Comers.” Having more than a half of a century engagement with the Mediterranean, living a total of ten years in Greece, Italy and Turkey (7 + years), he will address the membership and friends in […]
Wednesday, November 5, 2025 • 4:00 PM ETSponsored by the ESU Central Pennsylvania Branch The name D’Oyly Carte is recognized throughout the world because of Richard D’Oyly Carte’s partnership with Gilbert and Sullivan, which produced fourteen famous comic operas during the last quarter of the 19th Century such as H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, […]
ESU Charlottesville members and Friends of ESU are cordially invited to an extraordinary afternoon of “Music and Human Flourishing” featuring world-class violist Rachel Yonan. The Bach G Major Suite, a collection of six dances, will be integrated into the talk. Recognized for her expressive playing and elegant style, violist RACHEL YONAN enjoys a rich and varied […]
Join the ESU for an exclusive online professional development workshop live via Zoom from Shakespeare’s Globe in London. Explore four of Shakespeare’s most fascinating women—Juliet, Lady Macbeth, Beatrice, and Hero—through an interactive session connecting critical writing with rehearsal-room practice. Gain fresh strategies for engaging students with themes of gender, relationships, and power in Shakespeare’s works. […]
The Earl and Countess of Derby Invite the English-Speaking Union toA Magical Holiday Weekend at Knowsley HallPrescot, Merseyside L34 4AG EnglandNovember 20–23, 2025 From $2,500 pp double / $3,400 pp single in an Executive SuiteUpgrades to Deluxe and Royal Suite/Lord Derby’s Suite available Step into the enchantment of the holiday season with an exclusive invitation […]
A Sunday afternoon Christmas Party Chez Marijke Ford, from 1:30 to 4:30. A tax-deductible per person charge will be levied in support of the Shakespeare Competition. RSVP by week prior to the event. Questions: President Williams – 434/981-0444. Seating is limited. When: Sunday 7 December 2025 from 1:30pm to 4:30pm Where: Chez Marijke Ford (address to […]
From its humble beginnings in 1947, the wife of a Marine Reserve Major wanted todonate dolls to a charity that would distribute the toys to children in need. Sheconvinced her husband to create one. He looked to fellow Marine reservists to get thejob done. The project was a huge success and was officially adopted by the […]
During World War I, Britain made numerous and often contradictory promises in the Middle East—including the Sykes–Picot Agreement, the Balfour Declaration, commitments to Arab leaders, and support for Wilson’s Fourteen Points—in an effort to secure allies. After the Ottoman Empire collapsed, Britain faced the challenge of reconciling these conflicting obligations. Winston Churchill, guided by T. […]
As the calendar turns to 2026, The English-Speaking Union of the United States begins a year-long celebration of 250 years of American independence. Throughout the year, ESU will feature several Happy Hours that give us an opportunity to pause and reflect on this historic milestone.The American Revolution was a war unlike any other—one of ideas […]
A Thursday – A “Robert (“Rabbie”) Burns” night at Glenmore – complete with the ritual procession of the Haggis and Single Malt Scotch whiskey. Kilts, Period Costumes, and Formal Attire are encouraged. This event will be hosted by Glenmore Country Club. Our Branch will be a major sponsor. Details to follow with invitation.
The Shakespeare Competition at Blackfriars Playhouse, the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia at 10:00. For those who wish to remain for lunch, we will gather at a nearby restaurant. We want a good Branch showing in the playhouse. Free.
After 250 years, why are Jane Austen’s novels still so popular? Jane Austen (1775-1817) is one of the most famous writers in English literature. Her books are read by people all over the world and have been made into countless TV, film, theatre, and radio adaptations. She is known for her sharp wit, social commentary […]