2016 has already been busy with events marking the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare, on 23 April 1616, most notably a string of films based on, or inspired by, his plays at the Cinémathèque.
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The Weston Library is laying on a macabre exhibition entitled Shakespeare’s Dead, which will explore death and dying in Shakespeare’s plays and time, from Friday. Today visitors can sit in the room in which he would have sat, and take part in a Tudor-style lesson with a “Master”.
Among the many exciting events and options on offer, visitors will be able to visit New Place, which is the site of Shakespeare’s family home for the last 19 years of his life, transformed by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust into a new heritage landmark. Although the original house was destroyed, the site has been carefully reimagined in a contemporary landscape setting that beautifully reflects the original footprint of the 15th century home.
For performers like Dawn Sanders, who is the founder and chief executive of the Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand, the playwright’s work is still as vital to society now as when it was first written. This year’s anniversary gives us the opportunity to celebrate not only the building but the inspiration the school’s most famous pupil has brought to the town and to the world. These tours include a free map and information giving the historical background of the town along with a fun treasure hunt challenge for the kids. “We hope that when people find the coins in their change they’re reminded of the impact Shakespeare has had on their lives”.
Launched by Paapa Essiedu, now starring as Hamlet in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s (RSC) summer season, the special edition pieces feature three designs – representing the playwright’s comedies, histories and tragedies. The Festival draws attendance of more than 400,000 to nearly 800 performances every year and employs approximately 575 theatre professionals.
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If you’re thinking of visiting Stratford upon Avon, check out our favourite things to do in the slideshow below.
