The groups reconvened on the Upper East Side to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Various parts of the Museum captured the students’ awe and wonder, from medieval frescoes and High Renaissance paintings to English Victorian furniture and Van Gogh’s oil on canvas. “It would probably take at least three or four days to adequately examine this museum,” remarked Ethan Connolly (’26).
As the sun was setting over the city skyline, the group next gathered at a local Italian restaurant in Midtown. Dinner was hearty, and the conversations were cheerful. After a round of desserts, all departed for the main event: King Lear.
Considered one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies, King Lear is a part of the Junior Seminar curriculum. Sir Kenneth Branagh, the award-winning British actor and filmmaker, served as director of this new production and also played the title character. Though sprinkled with the occasional light-hearted moments, the play maintained a sense of tension, keeping the audience engrossed with the action. The top-tier acting and technical production helped bring together the dramatic and highly emotional climax.
“It really helps you to understand that Shakespeare is not only meant to be read,” said Student Support Coordinator Emily (Barry ’11) Sullivan, “but also to be seen and heard.”