The ESU National Shakespeare Competition is a performance-based education program. High school students develop analytical and communication skills by performing Shakespeare at the school, community, and national levels. Since 1983 more than 360,000 students have brought the timeless works of Shakespeare to life. 2024 marks the 40th year the ESU Denver Branch has participated in the National Shakespeare Competition.
Local High School students are invited to submit 1,500 word entries based on a theme. Entries are judged by University professors, High School teachers, and professional writers. Winning students receive substantial cash prizes. For their support, teachers and schools of the winners also receive recognition.
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 Branch volunteers have access to training, workshops, resources, and ideas for conversations from the English in Action community.
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.
In response to COVID-19, ESU introduced a virtual Happy Hour Program that has been a resounding success. The Program brings guest speakers from worldwide locations, live and free of charge using the Zoom format. To make it a real happy hour, speakers suggest signature cocktails to match the theme for attendees to create and enjoy at home during their presentations. All Happy Hour events are recorded and available on-demand or for download.
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.
