The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall mark #Shakespeare400.

Published

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall visited Stratford-upon-Avon today to join in with celebrations marking the life and works of William Shakespeare in the 400th year of his death.

The Prince began the day in Shakespeare’s hometown with a visit to New Place, the playwright’s adult home for 19 years, and the newly restored Tudor Nash’s House, to see the transformation in progress ahead of the re-opening of the property in July. Shakespeare’s former home is being brought to life by The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, an independent charity that cares for the world’s greatest Shakespeare heritage sites.

His Royal Highness viewed a new exhibition relating to the Shakespeare family’s life at New Place and toured the new contemporary garden.

The Prince also met some of those who are assisting in the conservation and re-presentation of the building and grounds, and watched a performance of an extract from 'Richard III' by the Combat Veterans Players. 

The Prince of Wales then paid a visit to Holy Trinity Church to visit the place where Shakespeare was baptised, where he practiced his faith, and where he is buried. Holy Trinity is an active parish church serving the needs of local people. 

HRH toured the church before meeting members of the congregation. The Prince also saw some of the tributes that had been left on Shakespeare’s grave to mark the 400th anniversary of the playwright's death before laying a wreath as a tribute to the playwright. 

In the evening, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall attended 'Shakespeare Live! from the RSC', a special event marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death by celebrating his legacy in theatre, music, opera and ballet. The Prince is President of The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). 

The night featured performances by Ian McKellen, Judi Dench, Rufus Wainwright, Helen Mirren, Benedict Cumberbatch and more. The Prince also made a cameo appearance in the iconic scene from Hamlet!...

Related content

News

The King visits Bedfordshire

06 December 2022
News

Remembrance 2022

10 November 2022
News

The King's Audiences

10 September 2022