Brush Up Your Shakespeare
By Judith Schrut - Email: judith0777@gmail.com
Shakespeare’s Globe is one of the world’s greatest open air theatres, a painstakingly faithful recreation of the original 16th century playhouse which stood a hop, skip and a bow away from the current Thameside location and where many of the Bard’s works were performed for the first time. The original Elizabethan Globe thrived until an unfortunate accident: a stage cannon misfired into the theatre’s thatched roof mid-performance. In less than one hour the entire theatre had burned to the ground.
The reconstructed Globe was founded by late expatriate American actor, activist and tireless fundraiser Sam Wanamaker. Since its debut in 1997, the Globe has been a success story beyond all expectations. Whether you’re a literary scholar or virgin ‘groundling’, a visit to the Globe Theatre during its annual April to October season is simply a must.
‘Justice and Mercy’is this season’s theme, and includes top-drawer productions of Merchant of Venice, As You Like It, Measure for Measure, King John and Richard II, with a number of shows touring the UK and abroad. Globe seats sell out fast, but 700 groundling tickets are available daily for an astonishing £5. This gets you a standing spot in front of the stage, we think the best and most authentic way to see a show.
For another unique summer theatrical delight, it’s a short trip north to Regents Park Open Air Theatre, splendidly set amidst the lush overgrowth of London’s most beautiful Royal Park. A showcase for award- winning theatre from May to late September for the past 83 years, it’s renowned as a place to see outstanding new talent likely to become tomorrow’s stars. Historically this has included Judi Dench, Vivien Leigh, Ralph Fiennes, Richard E. Grant, Sheridan Smith and many more. This summer’s programme boasts classic American musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Peter Pan, The Seagull and a critically acclaimed production of Lord of the Flies, prior to its major UK autumn tour. The theatre can be notoriously hard to find - only adding to its charms - so if you’re a first time visitor be sure to leave a little extra time for the search. You’ll know it’s worth it when you pass through the semi-hidden gates and enter a secret garden of delights complete with rambling picnic lawn, BBQs and the longest bar in London, twinkling with fairy lights.
Be forewarned that the Globe and the Open Air Theatre are verily open to the elements and whatever the weather the show will (almost always) go on. But come rain or shine - and yes, we’ve witnessed hail, lightning storms, sweltering heat and set-shaking winds - we promise your visit will be a magical experience.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre season, April-October, with productions also touring UK & worldwide www.shakespearesglobe.com
Regents Park Open Air Theatre, May-September openairtheatre.com