01 Oct Sip and Sonnets and Wine!

On September 13, the Pawling Library and the Pawling Shakespeare Club offered the final program, “Sip and Sonnets,” in a series of programs planned by the club and library dedicated to Pawling’s esteemed and beloved citizen, the late James Earl Jones. Mr. Jones was an honorary member of the Shakespeare Club for many years, attending special meetings and participating in several projects.

The program, arranged by the library’s adult program coordinator, Donald Partelow, featured seven sonnets written by the Bard and performed by club members with accompaniment on zither, flute or guitar by musically versatile club president Bernie Kaplan. Those who contributed their reading and performing skills included Marie DiLorenzo, Stephanie Rogers, Barbara Quick, Kathy Peck Marks, Susan Stone, Carol-Lee Kantor, and Ingrid Gherson.

Within the classic 14-line structure of these poems ran the typical Shakespearean themes of love and loss. 36 attendees participated in a final group reading of Sonnet #18, Shakespeare’s most famous, “Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day.” Flynn Earl Jones, Mr. Jones’ son, was present and spoke briefly about his father’s appreciation for the Pawling club. Flynn also expressed thanks for the other programs offered in the series, From Othello to Vader, previously presented in his father’s honor. The performance was followed by refreshments and a wine tasting led by Marie Leo from The Sprits of Pawling.

The Pawling Shakespeare Club is one of the oldest chartered Shakespeare clubs in continuous operation in the country, meeting regularly since 1898. Throughout its 127-year history, Shakespeare’s plays have been read aloud, analyzed, and enjoyed by its members, who meet from September through June. Currently, there are 22 active members.

Requests for further information about the Pawling Shakespeare Club may be addressed to Carol-Lee Kantor at jc******@*****st.net.

–by Susan Stone