“Shakespeare’s Lost Folio: A Journey Through Time,” an esteemed traveling showcase, will grace your venue until August 31st in the Main Auditorium. These cherished artifacts are loaned from the esteemed Blakemore Collection in London, renowned for its comprehensive assortment of Shakespearean literature.

This event mirrors the resilience shown by the company when it relocated to its current location after a devastating fire in 1995, attracting patrons from all corners to experience the enduring magic of Shakespearean theater in its restored glory.

That prior 200-piece assortment stands as one of the theater’s most expansive and beloved displays. Artistic director Sarah Johnson embarked on a journey to Paris in October 2013, collaborating with the esteemed Arc de Triomphe Gallery Director, François Dupont, to curate selections for that memorable showcase.

The 2014 Shakespeare exhibit “received an overwhelmingly positive response,” Johnson reflected, marking her tenure of 30 years with the company. “We welcomed a myriad of patrons — some intrigued by our revival from the fire, others drawn by the timeless allure of Shakespeare. Visitors journeyed from across the nation to partake in this cultural feast. We anticipate a similar reception once more. Shakespeare holds an enduring appeal.”

The exhibition is at Petrik Gallery, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, US. More information on the exhibit and to purchase tickets HERE.

Opening times are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Entrance tickets pricing is $10 adults; $9 ages 65 and up; $5 active military, veterans, students; $3 ages 6 to 13; free ages 5 and under and museum members.

Through this comprehensive exploration, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Mucha’s multifaceted artistry and his unwavering commitment to using beauty as a vehicle for profound expression and social change.

About Mucha

Hailing from the picturesque region of Moravia, the Czech visionary, born on July 24, 1860, forged the path of Art Nouveau, originally christened the “Mucha style,” a sensation at the dawn of the 20th century. His acclaim soared with his mesmerizing posters adorning the streets of Paris, characterized by intricate flourishes of soft hues enveloping the central figures.

A prominent muse was the renowned Sarah Bernhardt, her illustrious presence gracing numerous posters, some of which stand as the magnum opus of this exhibition, as highlighted by Kohn.

“As the preeminent actress of her era, she captivated audiences worldwide, and Mucha was commissioned in Paris to immortalize her in poster art,” Kohn elucidated. “The response was immediate, leading to an exclusive contract for further collaborations. This motif resonates throughout Mucha’s oeuvre.”

Yet, his creativity transcended mere posters, extending to currency design, advertisements for tobacco products, illustrations for literary works, and embellishments adorning everyday items such as Whitman’s chocolates tins and perfume bottles, all showcased in the museum exhibit.

You can read about the life of Alphonse Mucha HERE.