Filming has taken place for this year’s Shakespeare’s Birthday Celebrations as the annual spectacular honouring The Bard goes online for 2021.
A camera crew has been out and about around Stratford-upon-Avon getting ready for the special event which will be showcased to the world on YouTube.
The team were recording at several locations in the town centre in a Covid-safe manner to create a special film version of this year’s celebrations.
It will then be broadcast on Friday, April 23 in a bid to keep people safe in the current climate and not have huge crowds lining the streets.
People are being asked to watch all the action online and help commemorate the birthday of the town’s most famous son.
People will see the crew at locations such as Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust, Holy Trinity Church, New Place, King Edward VI School and more using all social distancing measures to make sure everyone is safe.
Sarah Summers, Town Clerk at Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council, said: “Although the celebrations are very different this year, we are doing all we can to make them as exciting as always.
“Under strict Covid safety measures, the filming has been taking place and I think it is going to be a fantastic show. It will give people around the world a taste of what we do every year.
“Here’s hoping to a fantastic return to form next year, when we can all be there in person and celebrate in a more traditional style.”
The online programme will see all the usual events happening from the unfurling of the flags, speeches, the National Anthem and of course Mr Shakespeare making an appearance as always.
Viewers will also be able to watch the ‘Cradle to Grave’ pilgrimage from Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust to Holy Trinity Church and the handover of the quill to the Head Boy of King Edward VI School.
Throughout the film will be extracts from Shakespeare’s works and poems celebrating his life and achievements.
Cllr Tony Dixon, Chairman of Stratford District Council, said: “We were not able to host the celebrations at all last year, so it is wonderful to see it returning in some form in 2021 with all the usual activities and events to honour William Shakespeare.
“The team have been working hard to create a film that will be really interesting for viewers and I would urge everyone to get online on April 23 and give it a watch.
“I for one am looking forward to seeing the film and how the crew create something very special for this year.”
To keep up to date with all the events taking place across the weekend, follow the Shakespeare’s Celebrations Facebook and Twitter pages or visit www.shakespearescelebrations.com
CAPTION: Mr Shakespeare with a select group of dignitaries and the camera crew filming for the special online celebration of William Shakespeare’s birthday