Living Shakespeare
Come together with other leisure learners in 2026 to enjoy lively conversations about 'all things Shakespeare' in the inspirational setting of William Shakespeare's hometown.
Very relaxed atmosphere with a lovely sense of being part of a group. The standard of speakers and topics covered was excellent.
— Leisure course attendee
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 - from craftsmen and gardeners, to theatre practitioners and educators.
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 28 and Friday 29 May 2026
'Creative Spark: Shakespeare's Imaginary Forces'
Explore Shakespeare's 'creative spark' with a special focus on The Tempest.
Join us to chart the development of Shakespeare's own imaginary forces, and use our archive to see how generations of theatre makers have taken inspiration from his words. Enjoy sharing your opinions about the play in performance, and discover how Kelly Hunter MBE has used The Tempest as a springboard for her innovative work with autistic people.
Confirmed speakers include Kelly Hunter MBE, Rev. Dr Paul Edmondson, Professor Charlotte Scott and Dr Nick Walton.
BOOKING NOW OPEN FOR JULY COURSE
Thursday 23 to Friday 24 July 2026
'Shakespeare's Green Worlds : Transformation and Imagination'
Explore Shakespeare's 'green worlds' with a focus on A Midsummer Night's Dream
Woods, forests, flowers ... and fairies. Join us to explore how Shakespeare's imagination was sparked by nature and the green worlds around him. Join in discussions about A Midsummer Night's Dream from page to stage, and enjoy a private tour of the gardens of New Place to discover how our gardens team incorporate Shakespeare into their planting and design today.
Also includes an optional performance of The Cherry Orchard on 24 July.
Confirmed speakers include Dr Nick Walton, Dr Christie Carson and Sian Cooper, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust's Gardens Manager.
HOLD THE DATES
Thursday 5 and Friday 6 November 2026
To include optional theatre performances of:
Julius Caesar on 5 November and As You Like It on 6 November.
Further details, including how to book will be shared later in the year.
If you are not already part of it, join our mailing list to receive updates directly. See the link below.
The speakers were fantastic. One of the best courses I've been to.
— Leisure course attendee