THE WOMEN who made Shakespeare are having their turn under the spotlight.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust has announced it will be exploring the many women across the centuries who have had a significant influence on how we experience the Stratford-born playwright today.
SBT spokesperson Prof Charlotte Scott said: “Prompted by the 400th anniversary of the death of Anne Shakespeare (nee Hathaway) earlier in August, we are embarking on an ambitious, multi-year, project that will explore the sometimes hidden, often ignored, erased or forgotten stories of the many women who have influenced, as well as secured Shakespeare’s legacy.”
Beginning in 2024, the project will launch with a focus on the lived experiences of the women in Shakespeare’s lifetime, including his mother Mary, his sister Joan, his daughters Susannah and Judith and the extended networks of friends, neighbours and country women who upheld and maintained those relations.
These stories will be shared at events, through learning and interpretation at each of the Shakespeare family homes open to the public in Stratford and special exhibitions at Shakespeare’s New Place in spring 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Trust will extend its focus to the female gaze and the women characters who have secured Shakespeare’s place in theatrical history – from lovers and queens, to witches, mothers, murderers, politicians and powerhouses.
Finally, 2026 will shine that light on the women who made and continue to make Shakespeare famous. Exploring the performances of actors as well artists, writers, readers and creatives who have brought his characters, male and female, to life.
SBT has also announced its commitment that all the activities will be devised and led by women.
The Women Who Made Shakespeare will start in 2024 across the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. For more information visit www.shakespeare.org.uk
