THE SHAKESPEARE Birthplace Trust is preparing to mark birthday number 455.
The charity has planned a free family-friendly programme of entertainment and performance outside the Henley Street birthplace of Stratford’s most famous son.
On Saturday April 27 there will be country dancing by schoolchildren from 9.30am, followed by the arrival of the birthday parade at the birthplace at around 10.30am, where ‘Mr Shakespeare’ will call in to collect the ceremonial laurel wreath and lead the parade down Henley Street.
The party atmosphere continues throughout the afternoon with a series of dance performances by community groups showcasing dance styles through the ages, from traditional to contemporary.
And actors from Shakespeare Aloud! will perform fight scenes from some of Shakespeare’s most famous plays.
Further afield, the gates to Hall’s Croft garden will reopen for the annual Knights and Nymphs children’s party. Popular with families, there’s plenty of fun to be had with a dressing up box, face painting, garden games and delicious treats including a barbecue and fizz for the grown-ups. Entrance to the garden is free.
Throughout the weekend, CV37 postcode residents can also take advantage of free entry to all five Shakespeare family homes and a slice of birthday cake, while stocks last. Proof of address required.
Visit www.shakespeare.org.uk for further details.