By Lyndsey Maloney

Nothing feels like the holidays more than hearing or seeing a classic winter tale. From the Nutcracker ballet, to curling up with a cozy book, or going to see your favorite holiday story on screen, everyone has holiday traditions that encompass a story.

This year at Rowan Public Library, all branches kicked off the holiday season with a portrayal of two holiday classics presented by Shepherd Shakespeare Company. Shepherd Shakespeare Company is a two-person team, Chester and Katy Shepherd, who have a love of theatre and bringing stories to life for audiences of all ages.

RPL East (Rockwell) and RPL South (China Grove) enjoyed a performance of “A Christmas Dream,” an adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic, magical, and fun Christmas tale. RPL Headquarters (Salisbury) and RPL West (Cleveland) enjoyed the classic performance of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Participants enjoyed the performances and at the end received holiday craft kits to continue the fun after the show.

This was not Shepherd Shakespeare’s first visit to RPL. They were one of the featured Big Show performers during the Summer Reading Program in 2024. “The library started working with Shepherd Shakespeare last summer with their performance of “Hamlet and the Pirates.” Due to their popularity with adults and children attending, they were booked for our holiday performances. Chester’s engaging shows have something for everyone,” said Wendy Campbell, RPL’s youth services supervisor.

When asked why they enjoy performing at the library, Chester Shepherd explained how libraries have always been a part of his and his wife’s lives. “My wife Katy and I both grew up absolutely loving libraries and have many happy memories visiting them. Every library is its own delightful community, and it is a joy to be able to share stories with those communities,” said Chester.

If you enjoyed Shepherd Shakespeare’s visits to RPL or you missed attending these special holiday performances, be sure to keep an eye out for the Summer Reading 2025 Big Show lineup, as Shepherd Shakespeare is slated to return!

Visit www.shepherdshakespeare.com to learn more about Shepherd Shakespeare Company. To check out a holiday classic book or movie to enjoy with your family, stop by any RPL branch or browse the catalog at rowanpubliclibrary.org. Programming for spring and summer 2025 will be announced via RPL’s website and social media pages in the coming weeks.