What do Shakespeare and Wayne Rooney have in common? - The Stratford Observer

What do Shakespeare and Wayne Rooney have in common?

Stratford Editorial 6th Jul, 2015 Updated: 28th Oct, 2016   0

SHAKESPEARE and Wayne Rooney now have something in common – selfie sticks are banned in both their respective homes.

Bosses at Shakespeare Birthplace Trust (SBT) have banned the increasingly popular device – which helps people take better photos of themselves – over fears they could lead to damage at the five historic Shakespeare properties the charity cares for in and around Stratford.

The Trust has joined a long list of museums, galleries and sporting arenas up and down the country which have already outlawed the use of selfie sticks – from the National Gallery in London to Manchester United’s Old Trafford home.

Fears have been raised the use of the sticks inside the small rooms of the Birthplace in Henley Street and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage at Shottery could lead to irrepairable damage being causes to the 400 year-old wattle and daub walls.




Self sticks join the use of flash cameras and tripod stands on the list of devices banned at the Shakespeare properties.

Philippa Rawlinson, SBT Director of Operations, said: “We amended our photography policy to include a ban on selfie sticks, tripods and flash photography within the five Shakespeare houses we care for here in Stratford.


“This is to ensure the enjoyment and safety of our visitors, and to protect the important collections on display and interiors of our precious heritage buildings, many of which are over 600 years old.

“We do however encourage visitors to use selfie sticks in our gardens and outdoor spaces to capture the wonderful landmarks connected to Shakespeare and his family. In fact, we even have a selfie spot on the hoardings at New Place where people can take a selfie with Shakespeare and post on our social media pages.”

 

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