Why should the RSC matter to Americans?

A world that understands itself is a better world – more just, more tolerant, more compassionate, more peaceful – and Shakespeare illustrates us to ourselves like nothing else.

Shakespeare is never disinterested. We are left in no doubt as to what he thinks, his moral position, political persuasion and judgment on the world. His plays still provide a consistent source of moral values which bloom and blossom without and within us.

The Royal Shakespeare Company has a long and storied history in presenting world–class performances of Shakespeare's work.

But it is not simply the scope and range of the productions that should impress. Nor is it just the astonishing caliber of the RSC's actors – many of whom have trodden a well–worn path from their seeds of training in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, to the hills of Hollywood and stellar careers in film and theater. It is also the sheer sticking power of a company which has been bringing its performances to America for 97 years. We plan to celebrate this abiding and special relationship with a Centenary tour of the United States in 2013.

It is with this goal in mind that we now launch a Centenary Appeal to raise $25m from America for the RSC.

I am proud that the RSC has a fortunate and long history of support from America. The original Royal Shakespeare Theatre and The Swan Theatre owe much to thoughtful American philanthropists who understood the power of language and the value of Shakespeare as a lens on humanity.

I am pleased to be heading up an appeal that aims to build on this tradition of US support for the RSC. You can find out more about the RSC's work and our Centenary Appeal in these pages.

Chris Abele
RSCA President