News And Events

News And Events

2024 Greenwich Shakespeare Competition

In 2024 Greenwich Branch had 22 Students competing, 13 schools represented, with following winners -

First place - Daia Jade, ACES Educational Center for the Arts

Second place - Sean Byrne, Norwalk High School

Third place - Audrey Compare, Fairfield Ludlowe High School

Honourable Mention - Ava Clear, Convent of the Sacred Heart

(Left to right) Chris Sarandon, Joanna Gleason, Ava, Audrey, Daia, Sean, Mark Shanahan

(Left to right) Ava, Audrey, Sean, Daia

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The ESU National Shakespeare Competition Starts Now!

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We are pleased to announce the kick-off of the ESU's National Shakespeare Competition! Schools in our region may enter now, giving students the opportunity to compete in the Greenwich Branch Competition.  The winner of the branch competition will travel to NYC to compete in the national finals at Lincoln Center!  

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Greenwich Branch President featured in New York Times' story on Prince Harry

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A Message from the Greenwich Branch President

Welcome to the Greenwich Branch of the English-Speaking Union, which was established in 1983 and now has a membership of over 300 area residents. The Greenwich Branch supports the worldwide ESU goal of advancing the effective use of the English Language in an expanding global society. 

Students

In March, The ESU and the Smith College Club co-sponsor the annual Shakespeare contest for public and private students in grades 9th-12th. In April, the local winner participates in the national finals held at Lincoln Center in New York City. The national winner is awarded a summer course at The Globe in London.

In May, Communications Awards, supported by Greenwich ESU, are held at Greenwich High School.

The John Douglas Public Speaking Award, in honour of Greenwich first president is presented to a senior at graduation. Over 200 students participate and the 25 winners receive awards in seven categories covering academic essay, journalism, public speaking, poetry, drama and video.

Teachers

We offer scholarships to Connecticut High School teachers in English, Social Studies and Creative Writing to pursue summer courses for three to six weeks at Oxford University, the Globe Theatre and Edinburgh University.

Members

The Greenwich Branch has monthly events, except during July and August, with a variety of speakers at cocktail receptions and luncheons, with occasional out-of-town visits.

The annual Garden Party celebrating His Majesty King Charles III Birthday is held in June. At this event winners of the Shakespeare Competition perform and the recipients of the Teacher Scholarships are introduced.

All members have access to Dartmouth House in London, the Headquarters of the ESU Commonwealth. Accommodation is available at area hotels which offer reduced rates to members.

Natalie T. Pray, MBE

President of the Greenwich Branch

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