Old Pronunciation English Expert to Perform Writings of Roger Williams in Free Virtual Program
BEN CRYSTAL
(Providence, RI) – Join the Rhode Island Historical Society in partnership with the National Parks Service Roger Williams Memorial on Saturday, August 14th at 6pm for a free virtual program “A Key into the 17th Century.” Ben Crystal, an Old Pronunciation English expert, will break down the mechanics of the OPE dialect, as well as recite passages written by Roger Williams and Shakespeare. This program will allow the audience to experience what it would have been like to listen to these iconic works spoken in the dialects of those who wrote them.
This will be the first time in several hundred years that the sounds of Roger Williams’ works will be heard in its original pronunciation. To quote Roger Williams himself “A little Key may open a Box, where lies a bunch of Keyes.” This experience will open the doors to a new perspective and understanding of what life in the 1600s was like. The program will encourage individuals to dive into their imagination and experience life in the 1600’s.
The public can register for this free Zoom program by visiting https://bit.ly/2UQXIde
Crystal is an actor, author, producer, and explorer in original practices of Shakespeare rehearsal and production based out of Anglesea Wales, UK. He has led original practice explorations for Shakespeare’s Globe, the British Library, and the British Council. He performed the title role in the world contemporary premier of Hamlet in Original Pronunciation, and in 2012 was the curator and creative director for a CD of Shakespeare in Original Pronunciation for the British Library.
About the Rhode Island Historical Society
The Rhode Island Historical Society, the state’s largest and oldest historical organization, is dedicated to honoring, interpreting, and sharing Rhode Island’s past to enrich the present and inspire the future. Founded in 1822, the RIHS is an advocate for history as a means to develop empathy and 21st-century skills, using its historical materials and knowledge to explore topics of timeless relevance and public interest. As a Smithsonian Affiliate, it is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible public programming and educational opportunities for all Rhode Islanders through its four sites: the John Brown House Museum, the Museum of Work & Culture, the Mary Elizabeth Robinson Research Center, and the Aldrich House.
The headquarters of the Rhode Island Historical Society are located at 110 Benevolent Street, Providence, RI 02906. Information: (401) 331-8575. Website: rihs.org. Follow the RIHS on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
About the Roger Williams National Memorial
Commemorates the life of the founder of Rhode Island and a champion of the ideal of religious freedom. Williams, banished from Massachusetts for his beliefs, founded Providence in 1636. This colony served as a refuge where all could come to worship as their conscience dictated without interference from the state