Shakespeare & Poland festival in UK’s Stratford-upon-Avon – English Section
The festival celebrates Poland’s particular affinity and fascination with Shakespeare and his work as well as the cultural connections between Poland and Britain, while at the same time aiming to promote Polish heritage.
Saturday’s programme includes a family-friendly picnic featuring an array of interactive and engaging nature-themed activities inspired by the shared love of the natural world by both Shakespeare and Renaissance Polish poet Jan Kochanowski, who was the Bard’s contemporary.
During last year’s Shakespeare and Poland Festival, Kochanowski’s statue was unveiled in the sculpture garden at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage in Stratford.
Join us on 24 June in the Yew Tree Circle at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage for a free fun-filled day celebrating the Polish poet Jan Kochanowski, Shakespeare and the Natural World.
📍 Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
👉 Booking is essential: https://t.co/Xl1c4FnIpt@PLInst_London pic.twitter.com/AhSawbJhWh
— Shakespeare B Trust (@ShakespeareBT) June 15, 2023
The day’s programme also includes the staging of Kochanowski’s drama The Dismissal of the Greek Envoys. Dating from 1578, it was the first drama ever written in the Polish language.
📣Shakespeare & Poland Festival Update!
The Dismissal of the Grecian Envoys on 24 June is SOLD OUT! But, Don’t Miss Out, 🎫 are still available for our Charity Gala Concert for Ukraine on 25 June proceeds towards @AmbulanceAidLtd & Medical Aid Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/f2o31WI1us
— Polish Cultural Institute in London (@PLInst_London) June 22, 2023
The event’s website says: “Exploring the historical backdrop of the Trojan War, the play delves into the collision and alignment of state interests with varying perspectives on politics, morals, rationality, and recklessness.”
The production is directed by Jason Morell, whose previous credits include work for the Shakespeare’s Globe theatre in London. An introductory talk before the performance will be given by the translator of the play, Charles Kraszewski.
“Anglo-Polish literature links” is the subject of a talk by Prof. Tony Howard from Warwick University scheduled for the second day of the festival. Its title is “A Better World Than This: Shakespeare and Poland.”
Sunday’s programme also features a performance of Ukrainian soprano Inna Husieva, showcasing the rich music of Ukraine, and a Chopin recital by up-and-coming Polish pianist Łukasz Krupiński, with all proceeds going to provide ambulances and medical aid to Ukraine.
🎶25th June, 18:30-20:30 Stratford Town Hall
Join us and be immersed in stunning classical music with top musicians Lucas Krupinski & Inna Husieva, raising money for @AmbulanceAidLtd and Medical Aid Ukraine to buy an 18th ambulance to send to Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/CMs6iSCQH1
— Polish Cultural Institute in London (@PLInst_London) June 17, 2023
(mk/gs)