THE BARD’S annual birthday bash is set to return to town centre streets this spring.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust has planned a weekend of celebrations to mark Shakespeare’s 458th birthday after the previous two events ran digitally.
The free, family-friendly programme will take place on Henley Street on April 23, outside his childhood home and at New Place, where he lived with his wife and children.
The streets will come alive with a line-up of pageantry and performance including a visit from Mr Shakespeare himself, who will call into his Birthplace to collect the ceremonial laurel wreath, before leading the parade down Henley Street.
The party atmosphere continues throughout the afternoon with a series of musical performances and workshops by folk and world music group K’antu Ensemble.
A Shakespeare Birthday Lecture takes place online on the previous day at 4.30pm, featuring guest speaker Professor Jonathan Bate.
This year’s lecture coincides with Earth Day and is themed on the subject of Shakespeare in a Changing Climate. It will explore plays, such as The Tempest, where the elements play a major role.
During the weekend, residents can take advantage of free entry to Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Shakespeare’s New Place. Proof of address is required.
Visit www.shakespeare.org.uk/whatson for more details.
