KahnNext time Shakespeare Theatre Company artistic director Michael Kahn visits his counterparts in London’s West End, he can introduce himself with a fancy title. Kahn was made an honorary commander in the Order of the British Empire yesterday at a ceremony at the British ambassador’s residence.
Commander is the second rung up in the Order of the British Empire, and one rank shy of Knight Commander, at which point inductees can start calling themselves “Sir” and “Dame.” However, those titles apply only to actual Brits and citizens of nations where Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state. Kahn is a native Brooklynite.
Kahn received the induction for his service, not surprisingly, in presenting the works of William Shakespeare. The event yesterday at the home of Sir Peter Westmacott, the United Kingdom’s envoy to Washington, was a celebration of what was believed to be the anniversary of the Bard’s birth. (Although it could just as well have been a commemoration of Shakespeare’s death; while he died on April 23, 1616, his actual date of birth has always been a bit dodgy.)
Inductees into the Order of the British Empire are so honored for “distinguished service to the arts and sciences, public services outside the Civil Service and work with charitable and welfare organizations of all kinds.” Actual British inductees are recommended to the queen by the prime minister and other cabinet members, while foreigners like Kahn receiving honorary memberships are nominated by British diplomats.
