Shakespeare Club Hosts Rose Queen’s Luncheon

The Shakespeare Club of Pasadena recently welcomed the 100th Rose Queen Isabella Marez and the Royal Court to the villa for the annual Rose Queen’s Luncheon held in their honor. There were 100 guests in attendance. As guests arrived, they were greeted by distinguished members of the Shakespeare Club and Tournament Officials. During the reception hour, attendees were offered a glass of champagne or rose-scented lemonade and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres while listening to live piano music and conversing with the Royal Court and tournament officials.

The luncheon and program were opened by Anne David, vice president of the Shakespeare Club. She presented the Queen and Court with rose charm necklaces, a traditional gift from the Club.
Lance Tibbett, 2018 Tournament president shared his reflections on the past year of “Making a Difference.” One of the highlights of the afternoon was to hear each princess and the Rose Queen share with guests what the past year has meant to them and their future aspirations. Gerald Freeny, incoming Tournament president, shared his personal journey and musings on the theme “The Melody of Life” for the 2019 Rose Parade.

Guests were then treated to a live performance of Shakespearean Sonnets by actress Alexis Rosinsky. Shakespeare Club President Janet Beggs made closing remarks.
The Queen and Court luncheon, held yearly at the club, has been a tradition since 1952. One of the oldest traditions of the Shakespeare Club is its association with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, which began in 1897, by contributing prizes and serving picnic lunches in the Tournament Park to visitors.
Today, the Shakespeare Club continues its tradition of service to the community through its scholarship program for Pasadena high-school seniors, support of Rosemary Children’s Services, and providing clothing and toys for disadvantaged children at Christmas.