CU Boulder's Shakespeare Gardens is a unique and captivating attraction that brings the world of Shakespeare to life. But what makes this garden truly special is the way it intertwines the natural world with the human experience, much like Shakespeare himself did in his plays. Personally, I think this garden is a testament to the playwright's genius and a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of nature and art.
A Garden of Shakespearean Proportions
The eight main gardens at CU Boulder are a physical representation of the plants and flowers mentioned in Shakespeare's plays. Founded in 1991, the gardens are located just west of the outdoor Mary Rippon Theatre, where Shakespeare plays have been performed since 1944. What makes this garden particularly fascinating is the way it brings Shakespeare's words to life. For example, the Tudor Rose and the White Rose of York, both mentioned in Shakespeare's plays, are on display here, along with other herbs, flowers, trees, and plants such as roses, lilies, chamomile, thyme, rosemary, and rue.
One thing that immediately stands out is the gardeners' efforts to raise any plants Shakespeare mentions, despite many being native to England and not Colorado's dry climate. For instance, the samphire plant, mentioned in the play King Lear, is more than 20 years old and thriving, despite typically growing off sea cliffs in England. This shows the dedication of the gardeners and the garden's commitment to authenticity.
A Peaceful Retreat
The Shakespeare Gardens also serve as a peaceful retreat for visitors. Monica VanZale, a volunteer with the gardens since 1995, said she's always hit with a sense of calm when she walks into the courtyard. This sense of peace is a welcome respite from the busyness of the street outside. It's a place where people can sit, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature, much like Shakespeare's characters did in his plays.
A Labor of Love
The Shakespeare Gardens are a labor of love, and the volunteers who tend to them are a testament to this. Deborah Broaddus, a volunteer for more than 30 years, said she's always looking for people who love to garden and who love Shakespeare. Carol Mellinger, who has been involved with the garden since 1996, was recruited to join the garden by its founder, Marlene Cowdery. Cowdery started the garden at CU Boulder after she visited Shakespeare's hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon and came back with the idea.
A Virtual Tour
Anyone can visit the gardens or take a virtual tour by visiting csgtour.org/virtualtour. Chuck Wilcox, a fixture of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival from 1971 up until his death in May, narrates the virtual tour. This virtual tour is a great way to experience the gardens and learn more about Shakespeare's connection to nature.
A Must-Visit Destination
In my opinion, the Shakespeare Gardens at CU Boulder are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Shakespeare, gardening, or the intersection of nature and art. The gardens are a testament to the playwright's genius and a beautiful reminder of the power of nature to inspire and heal. So, if you're ever in Boulder, be sure to take a stroll through the Shakespeare Gardens and experience the magic of Shakespeare's world for yourself.
