Anniversary marked by showcase of birthday collection items.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, the home of Shakespeare for the world and the national museum of Shakespeare, hosted a special event in Parliament on the eve (Wednesday 22nd April) of the writer’s birthday.
For The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust – the oldest heritage conservation charity in the UK – it was a case of coming home. The Trust was born out of a public campaign – led by Parliamentarians, royalty and cultural figures including Charles Dickens – who decided to act when the house where Shakespeare was born came up for sale.
The Trust showcased ten objects from its world-class collection of more than one million items in its museum, library and archive in the Jubilee Room in Parliament. These included the famous WS signet ring and the earliest copy of his will, famously bequeathing his wife Anne (or Agnes) Hathaway his ‘second best bed’.
Rachael North, Chief Executive of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, commented: “It was a pleasure to bring some of Shakespeare’s treasures back to where, in many ways, our Trust was born and to share them with parliamentarians and many of our partners, patrons and funders.”
Professor Sir Stanley Wells CBE, Chairman of the Trust’s Consultative Council marked the birthday by cutting a specially made Shakespeare cake with Sir Gregory Doran, former Artistic Director at the Royal Shakespeare Company and member of the Consultative Council who also performed a Sonnet.
Rachael North told guests: “Shakespeare’s birthplace and his four other family homes along with the million museum, library and archive objects collected since, are touchstones that hold an extraordinarily significant place in our shared national heritage.
“Proudly based in Stratford-upon-Avon, we’re harnessing our collections and incredible buildings to create visitor experiences and learning opportunities which inspire and bring people from across the globe together.
“To feel your way through the buildings and landscapes of Stratford-upon-Avon is a remarkable experience which should be accessible to as many people as possible.”
Hosted by Penelope, Viscountess Cobham CBE, Chairman of The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, the event was sponsored in Parliament by Manuela Perteghella MP (Chair of the Shakespeare All Party Parliamentary Group and Stratford-upon-Avon MP) and James Wild MP (Vice Chair, Shakespeare APPG and North West Norfolk MP).
Rachael North added: “Museums like ours play a vital role in places, acting as anchors for local identity and pride in place and make significant contributions to education and the regional economy.
“Next year, we will also be celebrating the birthday of the Trust itself. We have big plans to mark 180 years – securing the future of our collection in a new home and accessible store in Stratford.”
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and organisations from across Stratford-upon-Avon will come together to celebrate Shakespeare’s Birthday from today, Thursday 23rd April, until Sunday 26th April. Saturday 25th April is the focal point for this year’s festivities, expect a parade through the town featuring local schools and organisations, led by Mr Shakespeare himself – The Birthplace Trust’s very own Visitor Guide, Phil Watson.
Organised by Stratford Town Council, together with the District Council, the Parade begins at Stratford Town Hall and takes in the Birthplace on Henley St, Bridge St, High Street, Church Street – going past New Place Gardens, the Schoolroom and Hall’s Croft.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust will join in the festivities with scenes from Romeo & Juliet in the town centre, guided tours of Halls Croft and free access to New Place Gardens. Further details here.
Or find out more at shakespeare.org.uk .
