A BIG thank you has one out to townspeople and business in Stratford who gave their support to the celebrations.
The Shakespeare’s Celebrations was created by the town and district councils to generate financial and practical support for the traditional celebrations and safeguard their future for the town.
Val Harris, Development Manager for Shakespeare’s Celebrations, said: “What a fabulous day! If the smiling faces are anything to go by, events have been a hit with everyone whether taking part or watching the festivities. Our traditional celebrations are an annual highlight for Shakespeare’s town but they don’t just happen on their own.
“ I’d like to say a massive ‘thank you’ to the hundreds of volunteers, local community groups, business sponsors, Friends of Shakespeare’s Celebrations and many other people who have given so much time, money and enthusiasm to make the day so enjoyable. We couldn’t do it without your support.
“Next year is a particularly significant date for Shakespeare’s Celebrations as we commemorate 400 years of his legacy – so we’ll be eager to have your help again in 2016.”
Town centre shops joined in the party atmosphere with balloons flying outside those in a competition to name the best window display on the day. Judging is taking place and the winner will be announced shortly.
Sarah Summers, Town Clerk at Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council, said: “Bringing together so many different strands of activity involving so many partners and organisations takes a great deal of attention to detail and sheer hard work over the weeks and months before the events. Thanks to everyone concerned the Celebrations have once again proved a great success, giving huge pleasure to thousands of visitors and focusing the eyes of the literary world on our town and its famous son.”
Looking ahead, 2016 marks 400 years since Shakespeare’s death here on his 52nd birthday and Shakespeare’s Celebrations are set to be a huge heritage attraction for local people, visitors, scholars and theatre lovers from around the world.
Local organisations including Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, Royal Shakespeare Company and Stratforward Business Improvement Company will be working with Shakespeare’s Celebrations to develop a special timetable of events for this landmark year.
A raft of new attractions will be opening in time for the anniversary, and including a re-imagination of Shakespeare’s final home, New Place; opening of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom at King Edward’s School; a new exhibition in the Swan Theatre, the reopening of The Other Place, and a new home for the RSC’s wardrobe department.
Visit www.shakespearescelebrations.com to find out more.
RSC Artistic Director Greg Doran.
Dapper tribute.
Flower girl.
All smiles from the local constabulary and tourists. 17.015.007.strat.jm50
Drummer boy. 17.015.007.strat.jm47
A posy for the Bard.
