English-Speaking Union National Shakespeare Competition
A performance-based program running since 1983 in which students memorize and perform a Shakespeare monologue and sonnet, advancing from classroom to regional ESU Branch rounds and ultimately a national final in New York City.
The ESU National Shakespeare Competition is a dynamic, performance-based program that brings Shakespeare to life in high school classrooms across the country.
A performance-based educational program serving grades 9-12
Branch Registration Deadline – Friday, October 30, 2026
How to Apply
- Register your school or branch by the deadline
- Participate in school-level competition in fall
- Advance to community branch competition between January and March
- Finalists compete at national competition in New York City in late April
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