Shakespeare and Poland Festival 24-25 June 2023
Stratford-upon-Avon
The Polish Cultural Institute in London, is delighted to present the Shakespeare and Poland Festival in Stratford-upon-Avon, celebrating the cultural connections between Poland and Britain while promoting Polish heritage.
In commemoration of the one-year anniversary of the unveiling of a new statue honoring Renaissance Polish Poet Jan Kochanowski, who was also a contemporary of Shakespeare, in the sculpture garden at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage in 2022, we invite you to join us for a series of fantastic events spread over 2 days at the end of June!
Day 1: Saturday, 24 June 2023
ShakesPEERS Picnic: Celebrating Jan Kochanowski, Shakespeare, and the Natural World
10.00-16.00
Join us at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage for the opening event of the festival, prepared in collaboration with the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust: “ShakesPEERS Picnic: Celebrating Jan Kochanowski, Shakespeare, and the Natural World.”
This family-friendly picnic, suitable for visitors of all ages, will feature a range of nature-themed activities inspired by the shared love of the natural world by both poets.
So, pack your picnic, bring a blanket, and enjoy a unique day of celebrations. Join us in the Yew Tree Circle by Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, for a fun-filled day.
Admission is FREE, but advance booking is required using the link below
ShakesPEERS Picnic (shakespeare.org.uk)
The Dismissal of the Greek Envoys
18.30 -20.30
Experience the first drama ever written in the Polish language, “The Dismissal of the Greek Envoys” (1578) by Jan Kochanowski, performed at The Bear Pit Theatre.
Much like Shakespeare for Britain, Jan Kochanowski came to be regarded as one of the greatest poets and playwrights in Poland and even across the Slavic region of Europe. His robust language not only enriched Polish literature but also laid the foundations for its development. The impact of Kochanowski’s contributions to Polish literary standards cannot be underestimated.
During the Shakespeare and Poland Festival, you will have a unique opportunity to witness the staging of the first-ever drama written in the Polish language on the Bear Pit Theatre stage. This production, inspired by the 400th anniversary of the publication of Shakespeare’s First Folio, brings to life Jan Kochanowski’s renowned play, ‘The Dismissal of the Greek Envoys’ (1578), which has captivated audiences and influenced Polish theatre for over 400 years.
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. Experience the beauty and power of this significant piece of theatrical heritage, specially prepared for this occasion and led by esteemed director, Jason Morell, whose previous credits include directing for the Shakespeare’s Globe.
Event organised in partnership with the Polish Book Institute
Tickets are priced at £5 and can be reserved here:
The Dismissal of the Greek Envoys at The Bear Pit Theatre event tickets from TicketSource
All proceeds from ticket sales will be dedicated to supporting Ambulance Aid and Medical Aid Ukraine, who are raising funds to send ambulances and medical aid to Ukraine
Day 2: Sunday, 25 June 2023
Fundraising Concert for Ukraine in Support of Ambulance Aid and Medical Aid Ukraine
18.30-21.00
During the second day of the festival, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of classical music by Chopin and experience one of the most recognisable elements of culture during the Fundraising Concert for Ukraine in Support of Ambulance Aid and Medical Aid Ukraine.
Set in the stunning historic Town Hall in Stratford-upon-Avon, you can appreciate the genius of Poland’s best-known composer.
Indulge your ears in the enchanting melodies of Chopin’s most famous piano pieces, performed by the talented young pianist Lucas Krupinski. As one of the esteemed pianists on the elite “Steinway Artists” list, representing the highest level of piano playing, Lucas Krupinski has also garnered numerous international competition victories.
The event will also feature the captivating performance of Ukrainian soprano Inna Husieva, showcasing the rich music of Ukraine.
To begin the evening, Professor Tony Howard will provide an introductory talk on the British-Polish literature links, titled: “A Better World Than This: Shakespeare and Poland”, adding further depth to the cultural experience.
Organised in partnership with Copernicana CIC
Tickets are priced at £15 and can be reserved here:
All proceeds from the concert will be dedicated to supporting Ambulance Aid and Medical Aid Ukraine, who are raising funds to send ambulances and medical aid to Ukraine
An Evening with BASIA BARTZ and her
Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of
