His cup runneth over: 17th Annual Celebrity Sonnets

By Eric George Tauber

SAN DIEGO — Once again, the San Diego Shakespeare Society filled our ears with verse at the 17th Annual Celebrity Sonnets held at the Old Globe. Local personality Richard Lederer, clad in a velvet doublet and melon breeches, read an original sonnet in memory of the society’s founder, Alex Sandie, The Scottish-born banker was a dear man and a great lover of Shakespeare who last spring “shuffled off this mortal coil.” Our community is richer for having had him in our midst.

“Your praise shall still find room
Even in the eyes of all posterity.”
(Sonnet 55)

The rest of the evening paid homage to theatre veteran and society co-founder, Jonathan McMurtry. At the age of 81, Jonathan is closing the curtain on a long and storied career. To their colleague, friend and mentor, Sonnets were read and personal stories were shared in sentiments overflowing with affection and admiration. Local theatre icons included David Ellenstein of North Coast Rep, Sam Woodhouse of SD REP and Richard Baird of New Fortune Theatre.

Read the rest of the review at San Diego Jewish World!