HONESDALE, PA — On Thursday, February 25, The Cooperage Project will present the initial session of “Such Sweet Thunder: Shakespeare on Film” at The Cooperage, 1030 Main St. The new series is curated by Robert Dugan, Ph.D. This month’s film, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” starring Calista Flockheart, Stanley Tucci, Michelle Pfeiffer and Kevin Klein, will begin at 7 p.m.

William Shakespeare is widely regarded as the most influential playwright of the English speaking world and among the greatest literary artists who has ever lived. Shakespeare, himself an actor, intended that his plays be seen and heard, not read. During the first three centuries of their existence, presentations necessarily took the form of staged productions performed before live audiences. This all changed in 1899 with the film adaptation of “King John,” directed by William K. L. Dickinson and Walter Pfeffer Dando and featuring the great English actor Herbert Beerbohm Tree. Dozens of adaptations, many considered masterpieces in their own right, have followed.

Dugan will introduce each film with a brief background and orientation. After each showing, there will be a discussion for those who wish to further the experience.

There will be popcorn. Donations collected at the door. Visit www.thecooperageproject.org or call 570/253-2020.