You’ve no doubt heard that this year is the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s passing on April 23, 1616. His legacy and the timeless quality of his works is being celebrated around the world, and so of course it’s a special year for us at Bard. Read on for some of our favourite ways to honour William Shakespeare – this Saturday and always…
Celebrate with Bard
This Saturday, April 23, we’re hosting a wake for William Shakespeare. Past and present Bard actors will join us on the Goldcorp Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre to share stories and readings from some of their favourite Shakespeare passages, plus music and more. There is a pre-show hors d’oeuvres reception, and live music by Jeff Gladstone & The Bad Ideas. It will be the ultimate celebration of Shakespeare’s legacy!
Discover Shakespeare Events Around The World
The British Council has created an incredible resource for Shakespeare events happening around the world at shakespearelives.org (including Will’s Wake). Whether you’re in North America, Iran, Poland or in space, there are exciting things happening both online and in your neighbourhood. They also highlight interesting photography projects, Shakespeare resources, education workshops and cool videos like Laura Dockrill’s remake of Romeo and Juliet.
Watch Christopher’s Corner
In January, we started a new video series called Christopher’s Corner on our YouTube channel. Each week, for 52 weeks, Artistic Director Christopher Gaze brings you a story and quote, highlighting the timeless quality of Shakespeare’s works and featuring surprise guests along the way. Guests have included Vikram Vij, Eddie Jemison (Ocean’s Eleven, iZombie), and various Bard staff and actors who make Shakespeare come alive every summer. See if we featured one of your favourite quotes here.
Have a Movie Marathon
So many filmmakers have taken on Shakespeare over the years. Cozy up with some popcorn and settle in for Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet, Oliver Parker’s Othello or a romantic comedy-drama like Shakespeare in Love. There are plenty to choose from!
Don’t forget to tweet us or post on Facebook with your favourite quotes using the hashtag #ShakespeareLives. How are you celebrating Shakespeare’s legacy? Let us know in the comments below!