DRINKERS can celebrate Shakespeare’s birthday with a Bard on their pint.
The Coach House on Rother Street is marking the big day by placing the playwright’s picture on pints of Guinness served on Saturday (April 25).
Boasting several ‘Best Pub’ awards in addition to a history that dates back some 480 years, The Coach House has always celebrated Shakespeare’s birthday and honoured Stratford’s most famous son with artwork dedicated to him displayed across the pub’s walls.
Pub spokeswoman Katie McPhilimey said: “Stratford wouldn’t be the important destination it is today without the history, culture, and prestige that Shakespeare affords the town, so we will always celebrate his birthday – and this is a fun way to toast the Bard!”
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and organisations from across the town are coming together for festivities to mark the bard’s special day tomorrow (Saturday).
There will be a parade through the town featuring local schools and organisations, led by Mr Shakespeare himself – SBT’s very own visitor guide Phil Watson.
Organised by Stratford Town Council, together with Stratford District Council, the Parade begins at Stratford Town Hall and takes in the Birthplace on Henley Street, Bridge Street, High Street, Church Street – going past New Place Gardens, the Schoolroom and Hall’s Croft.
The parade culminates with people paying their respects to Shakespeare at Trinity Church, with gifts of rosemary offered as remembrance at the playwright’s grave.
Events from History will perform scenes from Romeo and Juliet outside the Birthplace on Henley Street. There will also be guided tours with SBT volunteers at Halls Croft, the home of Shakespeare’s eldest daughter, Susanna, from 11.30am on the hour where visitors can see the work taking place to care for the historic building and get a close-up look at conservation in action.
Festivities continue at New Place Gardens with hands-on activities inspired by Tudor life including traditional games, making a birthday card for Shakespeare, writing with a quill and object handling.
Visit www.shakespeare.org.uk/visit/whats-on/shakespeares-birthday-celebrations/ for more details.
