This February half-term visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon are set to experience performances from William Shakespeare’s most famous, female characters, as a troupe of actors return to the gardens of Shakespeare’s Birthplace.

From 10, February 2024, to 18, February 2024, visitors to Shakespeare’s Birthplace are in for a treat as the talented team from ‘Events from History’ are back daily to perform some of Shakespeare’s most famous scenes, some of a female twist, for all to enjoy.

This year, in celebration of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust’s multi-year theme, The Women Who Made Shakespeare, the actors will be performing a range of duologues from some of Shakespeare’s popular female characters.

From Lady MacBeth and Cleopatra to Juliet and Rosalind, visitors can come and listen as the team perform scenes from these much-loved characters, bringing their voices to life, in the place where Shakespeare once called home.

‘’All the World’s a Stage’ forms part of a special programme of events and activities taking place across the Shakespeare’s family homes in Stratford-upon-Avon as we celebrate and shine a light on the women who contributed to shaping Shakespeare’s legacy and explore how gender has been portrayed across the centuries.

‘’The actors were a hit with visitors last year, so our team is excited to welcome them back to the Birthplace as Shakespeare’s fascinating female characters are brought to life.’’

Commented Rachael North, Director of Museum and Public Programmes.

Also, in time for February half-term, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the family home of William Shakespeare’s remarkable wife, is inviting visitors to explore the iconic heritage site, as it brings forward its opening date.

Together with Shakespeare’s Birthplace, the beautiful 15th-century cottage will be open from 10 February, seven days a week from 10am to 4pm, extending to 10am to 5pm from 16 March until 27 October 2024.

‘’From Anne Hathaway to Susannah Hall and beyond, we want our visitors to fully immerse themselves in the hidden voices of the women in Shakespeare’s life. By opening Anne Hathaway’s Cottage earlier, we can ensure people get the opportunity to explore what life was like for young Anne Hathaway, learning all about what helped shape her into the incredible woman she became.” Continued Rachael.

‘All The World’s a Stage’ will be in the gardens of Shakespeare’s Birthplace every 20 minutes throughout the day during the school holidays and is included in the admission ticket. From 2 March to 3 November 2024, the actors will be performing in the Birthplace garden every weekend.

Visitors are encouraged to get the most out of their experience visiting Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Shakespeare’s New Place with the Story ticket.

This year, tickets are priced at £26 for adults, £13 for a child (aged between 3-15 years) and £39 for one adult with three children or £65 for two adults and two children, providing visitors the opportunity to explore the three properties for one great price.

As the Shakespeare Story ticket is valid for 12 months, visitors have the flexibility to return and take part in the range of events and activities across all the family homes throughout the year.