SHAKESPEARE’S annual birthday celebration will take place online this year.
A camera crew has been out and about around Stratford getting ready to showcase the event to the world on YouTube on Friday (April 23) – the Bard’s big day.
The team recorded several town centre locations to create a special film version of this year’s celebrations including Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust, Holy Trinity Church, New Place, King Edward VI School and more.
Town council clerk Sarah Summers said: “Although the celebrations are very different this year, we are doing all we can to make them as exciting as always.
“Under strict covid safety measures, the filming has been taking place and I think it is going to be a fantastic show. It will give people around the world a taste of what we do every year.
“Here’s hoping to a fantastic return to form next year, when we can all be there in person and celebrate in a more traditional style.”
The online programme will see all the usual events happening from the unfurling of the flags, speeches, the National Anthem and of course Mr Shakespeare making an appearance, as always.
Viewers will also be able to watch the ‘Cradle to Grave’ pilgrimage from Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust to Holy Trinity Church and the handover of the quill to the Head Boy of King Edward VI School.
Throughout the film will be extracts from Shakespeare’s works and poems celebrating his life and achievements.
Stratford District Council chairman Tony Dixon added: “We were not able to host the celebrations at all last year, so it is wonderful to see it returning in some form in 2021 with all the usual activities and events to honour William Shakespeare.
“The team have been working hard to create a film that will be really interesting for viewers and I would urge everyone to get online on April 23 and give it a watch.
“I for one am looking forward to seeing the film and how the crew create something very special for this year.”
Visit www.shakespearescelebrations.com for more details.
