Living Shakespeare
Come together with other leisure learners to enjoy lively conversations about 'all things Shakespeare' in the inspirational setting of William Shakespeare's hometown.
Extremely perceptive and enlightening discussions – enjoyable and insightful
— Leisure course participant
This year’s Living Shakespeare courses each have a theme to spark conversations around Shakespeare’s work, life and times.
The theme will serve as a window onto one of Shakespeare's worlds and help enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the play we will be putting under the spotlight.
Each course includes: opportunities to learn more about Shakespeare's world and works from subject specialists; the chance to discuss a theatre production with fellow enthusiasts and hear about a performer's creative process; and insights into how Shakespeare's 'creative spark' inspires creativity in others.
Everyone is welcome: from Shakespeare enthusiasts to teachers and lifelong learners with a desire to enhance their knowledge, enjoy good company and discover what Shakespeare has to say to you.
Thursday 5 to Saturday 7 November 2026
'Lend me your ears' : Storytellers and Storytelling in Shakespeare
Explore the power of storytelling in Shakespeare's plays with a focus on Julius Caesar and As You Like It.
Shakespeare knew the power of good storytelling and his plays are filled with a wide range of characters who experiment with different ways to hold the listener's ear.
So, who are Shakespeare's most effective storytellers and what tales do they have to tell?
Hear from creative practitioners - discuss live performance - and learn about the creative arts that played an important role in bringing Shakespeare’s stories and storytellers to life.
To include optional theatre performances of:
Julius Caesar on 5 November and As You Like It on 6 November.
Theatre tickets are limited so early booking is recommended.
Venue: Hall's Croft, Stratford-upon-Avon
HOLD THE DATES : Thursday 1 and Friday 2 April 2027
‘Slander’s venomed spear’: Rumour, Gossip and Slander in Shakespeare
Includes an optional theatre performance of Othello on 1 April.
Further details on this course will be available later in the year.
If you are not already part of it, join our mailing list to receive updates directly. See the link below.
Immersed in Shakespeare and Stratford! This course has reawakened the excitement for learning in me.
— Leisure course participant